Sciota rubrisparsella
Sciota rubrisparsella is a of snout moth in the Pyralidae, Phycitinae. The Sciota includes several leafroller moths whose larvae feed on various hardwood trees. This species is known to be preyed upon by the mason wasp Monobia quadridens, which hunts its caterpillars as food for its own larvae.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Sciota rubrisparsella: //ˈsaɪ.oʊ.tə ˌruː.brɪˈspɑr.sɛl.lə//
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Diet
Larvae are leafrollers that feed on leaves of hardwood trees.
Host Associations
- Sweetgum - larval food plantBased on congeneric Sciota uvinella (Sweetgum Leafroller)
Behavior
Larvae construct leaf rolls or folds for shelter while feeding.
Ecological Role
Herbivore; serves as prey for including Monobia quadridens.
Similar Taxa
- Sciota uvinellaCongeneric leafroller with similar and appearance; both are prey for Monobia quadridens
- Epipaschia superatalisAnother pyralid leafroller hunted by Monobia quadridens
- Pococera asperatellaAnother pyralid leafroller with similar ecological role as prey for mason wasps
More Details
Predator documentation
Sciota rubrisparsella is specifically documented as prey for the Four-toothed Mason Wasp (Monobia quadridens), which paralyzes the caterpillars and provisions them in nest for its own larvae.