Myelopsis subtetricella
Ragonot, 1889
Myelopsis subtetricella is a of snout moth described by Émile Louis Ragonot in 1889. It has a wingspan of 19–22 mm. The species is widely distributed across North America, ranging from Canada through the United States to southern California and Florida. Its larvae are known to feed on acorns.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Myelopsis subtetricella: /maɪ̯əˈlɒpsɪs ˌsʌbtɪˈtrɪsɛlə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
The small size (19–22 mm wingspan) and snout moth distinguish it from larger Lepidoptera. Within Myelopsis, specific diagnostic features are not documented in available sources. The Myelopsis was historically confused with Episcythrastis, and some sources may still list this under the latter genus.
Images
Appearance
Small snout moth with wingspan of 19–22 mm. As a member of Pyralidae, it possesses the characteristic elongated labial palps forming a snout-like projection. Specific coloration and pattern details are not well documented in available sources.
Habitat
Associated with oak given larval feeding on acorns. Specific habitat preferences beyond this relationship are not documented.
Distribution
North America: Canada (Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan) through the United States, extending south to southern California and Florida.
Diet
Larvae feed on acorns. feeding habits are not documented.
Host Associations
- oak - larval food sourcelarvae feed on acorns
Ecological Role
As a larval feeder on acorns, may function as a seed in oak . Specific ecological impacts are not quantified.
Similar Taxa
- Episcythrastis speciesHistorical taxonomic confusion; Myelopsis subtetricella has been placed in or confused with this in some sources.
- Other Myelopsis speciesCongeneric share similar and size range; specific distinguishing features for M. subtetricella are not well documented.
Misconceptions
Some sources incorrectly place this in the Episcythrastis rather than Myelopsis. The Wikipedia summary contains this error, which contradicts the accepted classification in GBIF, Catalogue of Life, and NCBI.
More Details
Taxonomic note
There is conflicting information between sources regarding generic placement. Wikipedia lists the as Episcythrastis, while GBIF, Catalogue of Life, NCBI, and iNaturalist all recognize Myelopsis as the correct genus. The accepted classification follows the latter sources.
Observation data
iNaturalist records 226 observations of this , indicating it is moderately well-documented by citizen scientists.