Suleima baracana

(Kearfott, 1907)

baracana moth

Suleima baracana is a tortricid whose larvae bore into stems of the Common Sunflower (Helianthus annuus). are small, cryptically colored moths that resemble bird droppings—specifically goldfinch waste—providing effective camouflage when resting on upper leaf surfaces. The has been documented in Alberta, Canada, and is part of a guild of sunflower- tortricid moths that exploit cultivated and native sunflowers.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Suleima baracana: /suːˈleɪmə ˌbærəˈkænə/

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Identification

are 7.5–11 mm in wingspan. The is cryptically colored to resemble bird droppings, appearing as a small, irregular dark patch on leaves. This mimicry makes it easily overlooked during visual surveys; close inspection of upper leaf surfaces on sunflower plants is required for detection. Larvae are stem-borers, though specific larval is not well described in available sources.

Habitat

Associated with Common Sunflower (Helianthus annuus) in areas where this plant grows. Inhabits agricultural fields, roadsides, and other disturbed where sunflowers are present.

Distribution

Documented from Alberta, Canada (GBIF distribution records). Likely occurs more broadly in North America where its sunflower is present, but specific range records are sparse.

Diet

Larvae bore into stems of Helianthus annuus (Common Sunflower). feeding habits are not documented.

Host Associations

  • Helianthus annuus - larval Larvae bore into stems; specific damage patterns not detailed

Behavior

rest on upper leaf surfaces during the day, relying on bird-dropping mimicry for avoidance. Larvae are internal stem-borers.

Ecological Role

Phytophagous on sunflower stems; contributes to the natural guild of insects that exploit sunflower resources. impacts on native sunflower stands are likely minimal, but economic significance in commercial sunflower production is not established.

Human Relevance

Not documented as a significant agricultural pest. Unlike the Suleima helianthana (sunflower bud ), which causes deformed and occasional yield loss, S. baracana appears to be a minor or incidental in sunflower agroecosystems.

Similar Taxa

  • Suleima helianthanaCongeneric sunflower ; larvae also associated with sunflower but typically infest buds and rather than stems, causing more conspicuous damage (deformed heads, black ). S. helianthana is documented as an occasional pest in commercial sunflower production, whereas S. baracana is not.
  • Other Tortricidae stem-borersSeveral tortricid moths bore into Asteraceae stems; accurate identification requires examination of genitalia or larval association with specific plant parts and characteristics.

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Sources and further reading