Argyrotaenia velutinana
(Walker, 1863)
Red-banded Leafroller Moth, Redbanded Leafroller
A small with a wingspan of 13–20 mm, found across eastern North America. The are highly , feeding on leaves and fruits of numerous plants including apple and other fruit trees. are frequently attracted to lights and are active across much of the year. The is occasionally a pest in orchards.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Argyrotaenia velutinana: //ˌɑːr.d͡ʒɪ.roʊˈtiː.ni.ə vɪˌluː.tɪˈnɑː.nə//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from other by the characteristic red banding on the , though pattern variability requires caution. The combination of small size (13–20 mm wingspan), eastern North distribution, and frequent occurrence at lights helps separate it from similar . examination may be necessary for definitive identification where visual features overlap with .
Images
Habitat
Occurs in diverse environments including deciduous forests, orchards, suburban areas, and agricultural landscapes. Associated with areas supporting its broad range of plants.
Distribution
Eastern North America from Quebec and Ontario south to Florida, west to Texas and at least Iowa. Also reported from Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Alberta, and British Columbia. Common east of the Rocky Mountains.
Seasonality
have been observed from early spring through much of the year; exceptionally common at lights over extended periods. Multiple likely occur annually.
Diet
feed on leaves and fruits of numerous plants including apple, other fruit trees, spruce, and various vegetables. Highly with broad range.
Host Associations
- Malus (apple) - larval leaves and fruit
- Picea (spruce) - larval
- Various vegetables - larval
Life Cycle
with , larval, pupal, and stages. feed on foliage and fruit, then pupate in a folded leaf on the ground. Neonatal have been observed to commit egg under laboratory conditions, though this is not thought to occur naturally.
Behavior
are and frequently attracted to artificial lights. Males exhibit behavioral responses to disruption in experimental field conditions, with altered movement patterns and mate-finding when exposed to synthetic pheromones. are , folding leaves for shelter while feeding.
Ecological Role
; function as folivores and frugivores. Serves as for various and .
Human Relevance
Occasional pest in apple orchards due to fruit and foliage damage by . Subject of research on communication disruption for potential management applications.
Similar Taxa
- Other Argyrotaenia speciesSimilar size and general ; require examination of pattern details or for separation
- Other leafroller moths (Tortricidae)Shared characteristics including larval ; identification relies on specific pattern elements and geographic context
More Details
Research significance
Has been used as a model in studies of communication disruption, contributing to understanding of male behavioral responses in manipulated olfactory environments.