Cochylichroa arthuri
Arthur's sunflower moth
Cochylichroa arthuri is a small tortricid commonly known as Arthur's sunflower moth. It was transferred from the Cochylis to the redefined genus Cochylichroa in 2019 based on phylogenetic analysis. The is a feeder on sunflower seeds and has a restricted North American distribution centered on the Great Plains and adjacent regions.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Cochylichroa arthuri: //kɔˌkaɪliˈkroʊ.ə ˈɑrθjuri//
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Identification
The small wingspan of 12 mm distinguishes it from larger tortricid . Accurate identification likely requires examination of genitalia or molecular analysis, as is common for small Cochylichroa species. The was redefined in 2019, so older literature may place this species under Cochylis.
Appearance
A small with a wingspan of approximately 12 mm. As a member of the Tortricidae , it likely exhibits the characteristic bell-shaped resting posture with wings held roof-like over the body, though specific coloration and pattern details are not documented in available sources.
Habitat
Associated with sunflower (Helianthus annuus) growing areas. The distribution records suggest occurrence in prairie and agricultural landscapes of the northern Great Plains and Midwest.
Distribution
Recorded from Saskatchewan, Manitoba, North Dakota, Indiana, Minnesota, Montana, and Ohio in North America. The range spans the Canadian Prairie Provinces and the north-central United States.
Seasonality
are active from July to September.
Diet
Larvae feed within sunflower and on sunflower seeds (Helianthus annuus). feeding habits are not documented.
Host Associations
- Helianthus annuus - larval food plantLarvae feed within and on seeds
Life Cycle
Larval development occurs within sunflower , feeding on developing seeds. Specific details regarding deposition, , and stage are not documented.
Behavior
Larvae are seed-feeders that develop concealed within sunflower . are attracted to light, as evidenced by collection records.
Ecological Role
A seed of common sunflower, potentially impacting sunflower seed production in agricultural and natural settings. levels and economic significance are not documented.
Human Relevance
A potential pest of cultivated sunflower (Helianthus annuus), though the extent of economic damage is not quantified in available literature. The is not widely studied.
Similar Taxa
- Cochylis speciesFormerly classified in this ; separation requires phylogenetic analysis or detailed morphological examination following the 2019 generic revision
- Other Cochylichroa speciesSmall size and similar associations with Asteraceae may cause confusion; identification relies on genitalia dissection or molecular methods
More Details
Taxonomic history
This was transferred from Cochylis to Cochylichroa in 2019 as a result of phylogenetic analysis that redefined the boundaries.