Hodges#0414

Ceratophaga vicinella

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Lepidoptera
Superfamily: Tineoidea
Family: Tineidae
Subfamily: Tineinae
Genus: Ceratophaga
Species: vicinella

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Ceratophaga vicinella: /sɛrətəˈfeɪɡə vɪsɪˈnɛlə/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Summary

Ceratophaga vicinella is a unique moth species that feeds exclusively on the keratin from gopher tortoise shells. Its survival is closely tied to the health of tortoise populations in the southeast United States.

Physical Characteristics

Adult moth is blackish brown with a tiny white spot on each forewing and a prominent tuft of cream-colored hair on the head. Larvae are whitish with a dark brown head.

Identification Tips

Look for the cream-colored tuft on the head and the blackish brown wings with white spots.

Habitat

Restricted range in the southeastern United States, mainly in Florida and Mississippi, where they inhabit environments associated with gopher tortoises.

Distribution

Southeastern United States, especially Florida and Mississippi.

Diet

Larvae feed exclusively on the keratin shells of dead gopher tortoises (Gopherus polyphemus).

Life Cycle

Larvae gregariously feed on shells and pupate within silk tubes that they construct.

Conservation Status

Vulnerable; appears to be in decline due to the threats to gopher tortoises.

Ecosystem Role

The larvae play a role in the decomposition of dead gopher tortoise shells, thus contributing to nutrient cycling within their habitat.