Ancylis burgessiana
(Zeller, 1875)
Oak Leaffolder Moth
Ancylis burgessiana is a small commonly known as the Oak Leaffolder Moth. It belongs to the Tortricidae, a large group of moths often called moths. The is associated with oak and has been recorded across parts of North America. are active during the growing season, with that fold or roll leaves of their plants.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Ancylis burgessiana: /ˈæn.sɪ.lɪs ˌbɜːr.dʒɛˈsiː.ɑː.nə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from similar Ancylis by the combination of pattern with a pale and the specific arrangement of darker markings. A. burgessiana is smaller than many related and shows more pronounced hooking at the . examination may be required for definitive separation from A. discigerana and A. divisana, which share similar coloration. The references larval of folding oak leaves, which can aid field identification when reared from material.
Images
Appearance
are small with wingspan approximately 12-16 mm. are brownish with variable lighter and darker markings, often with a distinct pale . The pattern includes fine striations and a somewhat hooked or angled typical of the Ancylis. are grayish- and narrower than forewings. Body is slender with a slightly tufted .
Habitat
Associated with oak-dominated forests and woodlands. develop on oak (Quercus), requiring intact leaf for feeding and shelter construction. Found in both deciduous and mixed hardwood forests where oaks are present.
Distribution
Recorded from Alberta and Manitoba in Canada, and Vermont in the United States. Distribution appears centered in northern North oak ranges, though records may be incomplete due to undercollection.
Seasonality
have been observed from late spring through summer, with peak activity likely in June and July. Larval stages occur during the growing season when oak leaves are available.
Diet
feed on oak leaves (Quercus ), folding or rolling leaves to create shelters. Specific oak species utilized have not been documented in detail.
Host Associations
- Quercus - larval oak
Life Cycle
with , , , and stages. Larvae are leaf folders, constructing shelters by folding or rolling individual oak leaves. likely occurs within the folded leaf or in leaf litter. Number of per year is not established.
Behavior
are solitary and construct individual leaf shelters by folding or rolling oak leaves, securing them with . are and attracted to light. Mating and have not been described.
Ecological Role
As a folivore on oaks, contribute to minor leaf damage and . They serve as for and other . The is not considered economically significant.
Human Relevance
No direct economic importance. Occasionally encountered by and naturalists. The reflects its association with oaks rather than any horticultural impact.
Similar Taxa
- Ancylis discigeranaSimilar size and brownish coloration with pale markings; requires examination or larval confirmation for separation
- Ancylis divisanaOverlapping pattern elements and geographic range; distinguished by more extensive dark markings and different structure
- Ancylis comptanaShares hooked and general appearance; usually has more contrasting wing pattern and different associations
More Details
Nomenclature
Originally described as Anchylopera burgessiana by Zeller in 1875, later transferred to Ancylis. The specific epithet honors an individual, likely an early or .
Taxonomic Placement
Classified in tribe Enarmoniini within Olethreutinae, a group characterized by diverse larval feeding habits including leaf rolling and boring.