Coptotriche purinosella
(Chambers, 1875)
Coptotriche purinosella is a small in the Tischeriidae, described in 1875. Its larvae are leaf miners that feed on several oak (Quercus). The species is known from scattered localities in the eastern and central United States.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Coptotriche purinosella: //ˌkɒptəˈtrɪkiː ˌpjʊrəˈnəʊsɛlə//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Tischeriidae are minute with narrow, pointed forewings and reduced mouthparts. Leaf mines of Coptotriche appear as blotches or serpentine trails on oak leaves. Definitive identification requires examination of genitalia or larval .
Habitat
Associated with oak woodlands and forests where Quercus occur.
Distribution
United States: District of Columbia, Kentucky, Louisiana, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, and Texas.
Diet
Larvae feed on Quercus alba, Quercus macrocarpa, Quercus montana, and Quercus muehlenbergii. do not feed.
Host Associations
- Quercus alba - larval
- Quercus macrocarpa - larval
- Quercus montana - larval
- Quercus muehlenbergii - larval
Life Cycle
Larvae mine leaves of oaks. occurs within the mine or in soil. emerge to mate and oviposit on host foliage.
Behavior
Larvae create internal leaf mines, feeding between upper and lower leaf .
Ecological Role
As a , larvae may contribute to localized oak leaf damage and nutrient cycling in forest . Specific ecological impacts are undocumented.
Similar Taxa
- Other Coptotriche speciesSimilar leaf mining habits on oaks; require genitalia dissection or molecular analysis for separation.
- Other Tischeriidae generaSimilar minute size and wing shape; plant and mine aid differentiation.
More Details
Taxonomic history
Described by Vactor Tousey Chambers in 1875 from United States material.
Leaf mine characteristics
Tischeriidae mines typically begin as linear then expand into blotches; is deposited in distinct patterns useful for identification.