Grapholita interstinctana
(Clemens, 1860)
Clover Head Caterpillar Moth
Grapholita interstinctana is a tortricid first described by Clemens in 1860. It is commonly known as the Clover Caterpillar Moth, reflecting its association with clover as a plant. The species belongs to the Olethreutinae within the Tortricidae , a group known for many economically significant agricultural pests. Records indicate presence in the northeastern United States, particularly Vermont.



Pronunciation
How to pronounce Grapholita interstinctana: /ɡræfoʊˈlaɪtə ɪntərˈstɪŋktænə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
As a member of the Grapholita, this likely exhibits the characteristic tortricid : small to medium size with wings folded roof-like over the body at rest, creating a bell-shaped silhouette. Specific diagnostic features distinguishing G. interstinctana from such as G. prunivora (Lesser Appleworm Moth) or G. delineana (Eurasian Hemp Borer) are not documented in available sources.
Images
Distribution
Recorded from Vermont, United States. GBIF distribution records indicate presence in the US, with specific locality data for Vermont.
Diet
The "Clover Caterpillar " suggests larval feeding on clover (Trifolium spp.), though specific plant documentation is limited.
Host Associations
- Trifolium - probable larval Inferred from ; specific records not confirmed in available sources
Similar Taxa
- Grapholita prunivoraBoth are North American Grapholita in the Olethreutinae; G. prunivora is known as the Lesser Appleworm Moth and has been documented at blacklighting events in California
- Grapholita delineanaBoth share the same and ; G. delineana (Eurasian Hemp Borer) is an economically significant pest of hemp, whereas G. interstinctana has no documented association with hemp
Sources and further reading
- BugGuide
- GBIF taxonomy match
- iNaturalist taxon
- NCBI Taxonomy
- Catalogue of Life
- Like a Moth to a Flame: Moth Night at Bohart Museum of Entomology | Bug Squad
- Bohart Museum of Entomology: One Busy Place! | Bug Squad
- Scarab Beetles First to Arrive at UC Davis 'Moth Night' | Bug Squad
- Grapholita delineana Archives - Entomology Today
- IPM in Hemp: Managing Pests in a "New" Crop