Proteoteras moffatiana
Fernald, 1905
gray-flanked proteotera, maple shoot borer, maple bud borer moth
Proteoteras moffatiana is a described by Fernald in 1905. It is commonly known as the gray-flanked proteotera or maple shoot borer, reflecting its association with maple plants. The species is assigned MONA/Hodges number 3235. As a member of the Olethreutinae, it belongs to a group of tortricids that typically develop as borers in tissues.
Identification
The can be distinguished from its Proteoteras aesculana (maple ) by differences in pattern and tissue specificity; P. moffatiana is associated with maple shoots and rather than twigs and . Definitive identification typically requires examination of or comparison with reference specimens. The 'gray-flanked proteotera' suggests distinctive gray markings on the wings, though specific pattern details require verification from primary sources.
Habitat
Occurs in where maple trees (Acer spp.) are present, including deciduous forests, woodlands, and urban or suburban areas with maple plantings. The larval stage requires living maple tissue for development.
Distribution
Recorded from the eastern United States, with distribution records including Vermont and other states. The precise range boundaries are not well documented in available sources.
Seasonality
have been observed in early spring; specific period documentation is limited but the likely follows the typical pattern for maple-associated with adult timed to .
Diet
feed internally on maple (Acer) shoots and . The specific feeding habits of are not documented in available sources.
Host Associations
- Acer - larval maple shoots and
Life Cycle
with larval development as a borer in maple shoots and . likely occurs in soil or within debris, though specific details are not documented in available sources.
Behavior
are and attracted to light. are concealed feeders, tunneling in maple shoots and .
Ecological Role
As a borer in maple tissues, may influence shoot growth and development. The contributes to the of maple-associated in deciduous forest .
Human Relevance
The 'maple shoot borer' suggests potential economic significance in maple syrup production or nursery operations, though specific pest status documentation is not available in the provided sources. Not known to be a major agricultural pest.
Similar Taxa
- Proteoteras aesculanaSimilar maple-associated ; distinguished by differences in pattern and larval feeding site specificity (twigs and vs. shoots and )
More Details
Taxonomic authority
First described by Fernald in 1905. The epithet honors an individual with surname Moffat, likely an entomological colleague or of the .
MONA/Hodges number
Assigned number 3235 in the North Photographers Group (MPG) checklist system.