Argyrotaenia quadrifasciana
(Fernald, 1882)
Four-lined Leafroller Moth, Four-banded Leafroller, Lesser All-green Leafroller
A small to North America, recognized by the four pale transverse on its . are active from May to August, with one per year. The overwinters as a third- and is associated with orchards and shrubby . Larvae feed on leaves of various in the rose .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Argyrotaenia quadrifasciana: /ˌɑːr.d͡ʒɪ.roʊˈteɪ.ni.ə ˌkwɑː.drɪ.fæˈʃaɪ.ə.nə/
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Identification
Distinguished from other Argyrotaenia by the four distinct pale transverse on the . The Red-banded (Argyrotaenia velutinana) has a prominent reddish- rather than multiple transverse lines. Other similar in the same may show different banding patterns or fewer lines. Examination of may be required for definitive identification in some cases.
Images
Appearance
Small with wingspan of 14–17 mm. display four distinct pale transverse against a darker background, giving the its . pattern consists of alternating light and dark . Overall coloration ranges from to grayish-brown with cream or whitish markings.
Habitat
Orchards and shrubby areas, particularly where plants of the rose occur. Associated with both cultivated and wild stands of Amelanchier, Crataegus, Malus, Prunus, and Pyrus.
Distribution
North America: Nova Scotia to West Virginia, west to Arkansas, and north to Alberta. Records from Canadian provinces including Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan, and U.S. state of Vermont.
Seasonality
recorded on from May to August. One per year. Overwinters as third- .
Diet
feed on leaves of Amelanchier (including A. alnifolia), Crataegus species, Malus sylvestris, Prunus species (including P. pensylvanica, P. serotina, P. virginiana), and Pyrus species. feeding habits not documented.
Host Associations
- Amelanchier alnifolia - larval
- Prunus pensylvanica - larval
- Prunus serotina - larval
- Prunus virginiana - larval
- Malus sylvestris - larval
- Crataegus - larval level
- Pyrus - larval level
- Amelanchier - larval level
- Prunus - larval level
Life Cycle
with . One per year. hatch into that feed on leaves. Larvae overwinter in the third . occurs in spring, with emerging from May through August. Specific details of egg-laying and pupation sites not documented.
Behavior
are , constructing shelters by rolling or folding leaves. are and have been recorded at blacklight. Specific adult behaviors such as mating or not documented.
Ecological Role
in orchard and shrubland . consume leaves of , potentially contributing to minor . Role in as for and not documented.
Human Relevance
Occasional pest in orchards due to larval feeding on cultivated Malus (apple) and Pyrus (pear). Economic impact appears limited compared to other pests. No significant cultural or medicinal uses documented.
Similar Taxa
- Argyrotaenia velutinanaRed-banded has a prominent reddish- rather than four transverse ; also more and widespread in eastern North America
- Other Argyrotaenia speciesMany share similar size and general pattern but differ in number, arrangement, or color of transverse ; examination often required for definitive separation
More Details
Taxonomic History
Originally described as Lophoderus quadrifasciana by Fernald in 1882 before transfer to Argyrotaenia.