Melitara texana
Neunzig, 1997
Texas snout moth
Melitara texana is a of snout moth in the Pyralidae, described by Herbert H. Neunzig in 1997. The species is known from southern Texas and adjacent Mexico. Its larvae are specialized feeders on Opuntia lindheimeri var. lindheimeri, a prickly pear cactus species.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Melitara texana: //ˌmɛlɪˈtɑːrə tɛkˈsænə//
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Habitat
Associated with regions where its plant Opuntia lindheimeri var. lindheimeri occurs; this prickly pear variety is native to Texas and northeastern Mexico, typically found in dry, rocky, or sandy soils in grasslands, scrublands, and open woodlands.
Distribution
Southern Texas, United States and adjacent Mexico.
Diet
Larvae feed on Opuntia lindheimeri var. lindheimeri (prickly pear cactus). feeding habits are not documented.
Host Associations
- Opuntia lindheimeri var. lindheimeri - larval food plantPrickly pear cactus; specific variety indicated in original description