Parapoynx obscuralis
Grote, 1881
obscure pondweed moth, American china-mark, vallisneria leafcutter
Parapoynx obscuralis is an aquatic in the Crambidae, first described by Augustus Radcliffe Grote in 1881. The is native to North America, with a range extending from Nova Scotia to Florida and west to Texas, Wisconsin, and Ontario. It has been introduced to Great Britain, where it is naturalised in aquatic nurseries. The larvae are aquatic and feed on submerged aquatic plants.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Parapoynx obscuralis: /ˌpærəˈpɔɪŋks əbˈskjʊərəlɪs/
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Habitat
Aquatic environments; larvae inhabit freshwater systems with submerged vegetation. In Great Britain, established in aquatic nurseries.
Distribution
Native to North America: Nova Scotia to Florida, west to Texas, north to Wisconsin and Ontario. Introduced and naturalised in Great Britain. GBIF records indicate doubtful or rare occurrences in Belgium and France.
Diet
Larvae feed on aquatic plants including Vallisneria, Potamogeton, and Nuphar .
Host Associations
- Vallisneria - larval food plantsubmerged aquatic plant
- Potamogeton - larval food plantpondweed
- Nuphar - larval food plantwater lily
Life Cycle
Larvae are aquatic. stage terrestrial.
Human Relevance
Accidentally introduced to Great Britain through aquatic nursery trade. No significant documented economic impact.
More Details
Introduction to Great Britain
The is not native to Europe; its presence in Great Britain results from accidental introduction via aquatic nurseries.