Geshna cannalis
Quaintance, 1898
Lesser Canna Leafroller Moth
Geshna cannalis, the lesser canna leafroller , is the sole in the Geshna. It is a small crambid moth distributed in the southeastern United States and parts of the Caribbean and Central America. The species is associated with canna plants (Canna spp.), where larvae roll leaves for shelter. It was first described by Quaintance in 1898 from the original basionym Hydrocampa cannalis.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Geshna cannalis: /ˈɡɛʃnə kænˈnælɪs/
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Identification
The can be distinguished from the greater canna leafroller (Calpodes ethlius, Hesperiidae) by its smaller size and crambid moth characteristics, including thread-like rather than clubbed . Within Crambidae, identification relies on association with canna and geographic range, as detailed morphological diagnostic features for field identification are not well documented in accessible literature.
Habitat
Associated with cultivated and wild stands of canna plants (Canna spp.), typically in moist, open environments including gardens, wetlands, and riparian areas where plants occur.
Distribution
Southeastern United States: Florida, Mississippi, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Tennessee. Also recorded from Rica and Cuba.
Diet
Larvae feed on leaves of canna plants (Canna spp.), rolling leaves to create shelters while feeding.
Host Associations
- Canna - larval plantprimary ; larvae roll leaves for shelter
Behavior
Larvae construct leaf rolls by folding or rolling canna leaves, using silk to secure the structure. This provides protection from and desiccation while feeding.
Ecological Role
Herbivore specializing on Canna ; likely has limited impact on wild but may affect ornamental plantings.
Human Relevance
Minor pest of ornamental canna lilies in gardens and landscapes. Larval leaf rolling reduces aesthetic value of plants but rarely causes severe damage.
Similar Taxa
- Calpodes ethliusAlso called 'canna leafroller' but is a (Hesperiidae), not a ; larger and with clubbed
More Details
Taxonomic notes
Geshna is a within Spilomelinae. The was transferred from the genus Hydrocampa to Geshna, establishing the current combination.