Platynota richersi

Platynota richersi is a of tortricid in the Platynota. The genus Platynota includes leafroller moths, many of which are agricultural pests. Some Platynota species are known to be preyed upon by solitary , including the Four-toothed Mason Wasp (Monobia quadridens), which paralyzes caterpillars to provision its nests.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Platynota richersi: //ˌplætɪˈnoʊtə ˈrɪkərʃaɪ//

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Ecological Role

Larval food source for predatory . Platynota caterpillars, including those of P. richersi, have been documented as prey for the mason wasp Monobia quadridens, which hunts leafroller caterpillars to provision its solitary nests.

Similar Taxa

  • Platynota stultanaBoth are congeneric leafroller moths in the Platynota. P. stultana ( leafroller) is a well-known agricultural pest with documented , while P. richersi appears to be a much less documented .

More Details

Prey of Monobia quadridens

According to a 2012 blog post by entomologist Eric Eaton, Platynota spp. (including P. richersi) are among the leafroller caterpillars hunted by the Four-toothed Mason Wasp (Monobia quadridens) to provision its nests. The paralyzes small caterpillars and transports them to pre-existing cavities such as abandoned tunnels.

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