Epinotia celtisana

Distinguished from similar Epinotia species by genitalia characteristics and host plant association. Epinotia nisella and E. solandriana are similar in appearance but lack the hackberry specialization. Examination of male genitalia, particularly the shape of the uncus and valvae, provides definitive identification. The larval habitat within hackberry fruits is diagnostic.

Small moth with forewings typically 6-9 mm in length. Forewings are grayish-brown with variable darker markings, often with a distinct median fascia and irregular transverse lines. Hindwings are pale grayish-brown. The species exhibits typical Olethreutinae wing shape with a somewhat pointed apex. Resting posture shows wings held roof-like over the body.

Associated with hackberry (Celtis) trees and woodlands. Occurs in deciduous forests, forest edges, riparian corridors, and urban areas where hackberry is planted. Not restricted to pristine habitats; common in suburban and agricultural settings with hackberry presence.

North America, primarily eastern and central United States. Range extends from the Atlantic coast westward to the Great Plains, following the distribution of its hackberry host plants.

Adults active from July through October, with peak activity in August and September. Larval development occurs within hackberry fruits during summer months. Overwinters as larvae or pupae within fruit or soil.

Larvae feed exclusively on hackberry (Celtis spp.) fruits, developing inside the drupes. This is a fruit specialist rather than a foliar feeder.

• Celtis - larval hostfruits

Eggs laid on or near hackberry fruits. Larvae bore into developing fruits and feed on the pulp and seed, producing frass-filled galleries. Larval development completed within single fruit. Pupation occurs within the fruit or in soil. Univoltine with single generation per year.

Adults are nocturnal and attracted to light. Larvae are concealed feeders within hackberry fruits, rendering them cryptic and protected from predators. No known gregarious behavior; single larva typically per fruit.

Acts as a seed predator of hackberry, potentially reducing seed viability and recruitment. Provides food source for parasitoid wasps and generalist predators. Not considered a significant pest of ornamental or native hackberry populations.

Minor occasional pest of ornamental hackberry plantings. No economic significance for fruit production as hackberry is not commercially cultivated. Sometimes noticed when infested fruits drop prematurely or when adults are attracted to porch lights.

• Epinotia nisellaSimilar size and wing pattern, but lacks hackberry host association and differs in genitalia
• Epinotia solandrianaOverlapping range and similar appearance; distinguished by genitalic characters and host plant
• Epinotia transmissanaRelated species with similar morphology; host plant and genitalia examination required for separation

• Tortricidae
• Olethreutinae
• fruit borer
• hackberry
• Celtis
• North America

• BugGuide
• GBIF taxonomy match
• iNaturalist taxon
• NCBI Taxonomy
• Catalogue of Life
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