Epiblema obfuscana
(Dyar, 1903)
Blue-washed Goldenrod Borer
A small tortricid in the Epiblema, recognized by the Blue-washed Goldenrod Borer. The was described by Harrison G. Dyar in 1903 and belongs to the leafroller moth Tortricidae. Like other members of its genus, it likely develops as a stem or root borer in herbaceous plants. The specific epithet and common name suggest coloration with bluish or grayish tones.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Epiblema obfuscana: /ɛˈpɪbləma ˌɒbfʊˈskɑːnə/
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Images
Distribution
Recorded from Vermont and other locations in the United States. Distribution records are sparse in the provided sources.
Host Associations
- Solidago - larval implied by 'Blue-washed Goldenrod Borer'
Similar Taxa
- Epiblema tripartitanaCongeneric mentioned in same geographic region (Colorado), distinguished by tripartite wing patterning and bird-dropping mimicry appearance
- Other Epiblema speciesMany Epiblema are superficially similar small tortricids with variable gray-brown patterning; precise identification often requires genitalia examination or larval association
More Details
Common name origin
The 'Blue-washed Goldenrod Borer' appears to be a recent iNaturalist designation, referencing both the coloration and presumed larval in goldenrod (Solidago) stems.