Ancylis mediofasciana

(Clemens, 1864)

Serviceberry Leaffolder

Ancylis mediofasciana is a small tortricid found in central Canada. The "Serviceberry Leaffolder" indicates its association with serviceberry (Amelanchier) as a larval . are active in late spring and early summer. The belongs to a whose larvae characteristically fold or roll leaves of their host plants.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Ancylis mediofasciana: /ˈæn.sɪ.lɪs ˌmiː.di.oʊ.fæˈʃiː.æ.nə/

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

Identification

Small tortricid with forewings showing a fascia pattern, as suggested by the specific epithet. Typical Ancylis wing shape with costal fold in males. Specific diagnostic characters require examination of genitalia; identification from similar Ancylis is difficult based on external alone.

Habitat

Associated with serviceberry shrubs and small trees in open woodlands, forest edges, and shrubby .

Distribution

Central Canada: recorded from Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan.

Seasonality

active May–July based on iNaturalist observation records.

Diet

Larvae feed on serviceberry (Amelanchier ).

Host Associations

  • Amelanchier - larval "Serviceberry Leaffolder" derives from this association

Behavior

Larvae fold or roll leaves of plants, typical of the Ancylis.

Ecological Role

Herbivore; leaf-rolling larvae may provide microhabitats for other small organisms in folded leaves.

Similar Taxa

  • Ancylis comptanaSimilar size and wing pattern; requires genitalia examination for reliable separation
  • Other Ancylis species contains many small, similarly patterned often requiring dissection for identification

Tags

Sources and further reading