Clepsis melaleucanus

(Walker, 1863)

Black-patched Clepsis Moth

Clepsis melaleucanus, the black-patched clepsis, is a tortricid distributed across northern and eastern North America. As a member of the leafroller moth Tortricidae, it shares the characteristic larval of rolling or folding leaves to create shelters. The species has been recorded from Alberta to Newfoundland, extending south to North Carolina and Missouri. It is attracted to ultraviolet light sources, making it a regular visitor at moth observation events.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Clepsis melaleucanus: /ˈklɛpsɪs ˌmɛləluːˈkanəs/

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

Identification

The "black-patched clepsis" refers to diagnostic dark markings on the forewings. As a Clepsis , it can be distinguished from similar tortricid by genitalia and wing pattern details. It may be confused with other Clepsis species such as C. peritana (garden tortrix), but differs in the extent and placement of dark patches on the forewings. Positive identification often requires examination of specimens.

Distribution

North America from Alberta to Newfoundland, south to North Carolina and Missouri. Specific distribution records include Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan in Canada; and Vermont in the United States.

Seasonality

have been observed in July at light stations, consistent with summer activity typical for many tortricid in temperate regions.

Life Cycle

Larval stage is known to roll or fold leaves for shelter, as characteristic of the Tortricidae. Specific plants and detailed have not been documented.

Behavior

are and attracted to ultraviolet light sources. They have been documented visiting blacklighting displays at observation events.

Ecological Role

Larvae function as herbivores, with leaf-rolling potentially influencing leaf litter dynamics and providing microhabitats for other small organisms.

Similar Taxa

  • Clepsis peritanaBoth are Clepsis with similar overall and leaf-rolling larval ; C. peritana has more distinct transverse bands rather than discrete black patches
  • Platynota stultanaBoth are tortricine of similar size that may occur at the same light stations; P. stultana has more mottled, less distinctly patterned forewings

More Details

Research status

This has received limited dedicated study. Most records come from general surveys and citizen science observations rather than targeted research.

Tags

Sources and further reading