Clepsis consimilana

(Hübner, [1814-1817])

privet tortrix

Clepsis consimilana, commonly known as the privet tortrix, is a small tortricid with a wingspan of 13–19 mm. are active from June to September, with a partial second occurring in September. The larvae feed on various woody plants, particularly Ligustrum (privet) , and prefer dead leaves. The species has a broad distribution spanning Europe, Asia Minor, Syria, North Africa, and the eastern United States.

Clepsis consimilana by (c) Julien Renoult, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Julien Renoult. Used under a CC-BY license.Noordwijk - Tuinbladroller - Clepsis consimilana by Rudolphous. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.Clepsis consimilana-pjt by pjt56 ---. Used under a CC BY-SA 3.0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Clepsis consimilana: /ˈklɛpsɪs kɒnsɪmɪˈlɑːnə/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Identification

Distinguished from similar Clepsis by the combination of reddish-brown forewings with dark brown markings and two small dark spots on the hind edge. Females are less distinctly marked than males. The violet green or violet grey larvae with pale brown provide additional identification cues.

Images

Habitat

Associated with woody vegetation, particularly areas containing Ligustrum (privet) and other plants. Larvae feed in rolled or folded leaves.

Distribution

Europe to Asia Minor and Syria; North Africa; eastern United States.

Seasonality

on wing June to September. Partial second occurs in September. Third instar larvae hibernate.

Diet

Larvae feed on various trees and shrubs including Ligustrum (preferred), Syringa, Hedera, Lonicera, Polygonum, Malus, Carpinus, Crataegus, and Cotoneaster. Larvae apparently prefer dead leaves.

Host Associations

  • Ligustrum - larval food plantpreferred
  • Syringa - larval food plant
  • Hedera - larval food plant
  • Lonicera - larval food plant
  • Polygonum - larval food plant
  • Malus - larval food plant
  • Carpinus - larval food plant
  • Crataegus - larval food plant
  • Cotoneaster - larval food plant

Life Cycle

hatch into larvae that feed on plant leaves, rolling or folding leaves for shelter. occurs in the larval feeding place. emerge June to September. A partial second occurs in September, with third instar larvae entering hibernation.

Behavior

are active in afternoon and evening and come to light. Larvae roll or fold leaves to conceal themselves from and .

Ecological Role

Larval leaf-roller that contributes to nutrient cycling through consumption of dead leaves. Serves as prey for various including .

Human Relevance

Minor pest potential on cultivated Ligustrum (privet) and other ornamental shrubs. The 'privet tortrix' reflects its association with privet hedges.

Similar Taxa

More Details

Hibernation

Third instar larvae hibernate, resuming development in spring.

Light attraction

are readily attracted to ultraviolet light sources.

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Sources and further reading