Synalocha gutierreziae
Powell, 1985
Synalocha gutierreziae is a small tortricid described by Powell in 1985. The occurs in the southwestern United States and exhibits in forewing length. are active in autumn, and larvae feed on specific plants in the Gutierrezia.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Synalocha gutierreziae: /sɪˈnæloʊkə ɡuˌtiɛˈrɛzieɪ/
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Identification
Distinguished from related tortricids by association with Gutierrezia plants and geographic restriction to the southwestern United States. Forewing length measurements and autumn period may aid separation from congeneric , though specific diagnostic characters require examination of genitalia.
Appearance
Small with forewings measuring 6.5-7.9 mm in males and 6.5-10.5 mm in females, showing sexual size dimorphism with females averaging larger.
Habitat
Associated with supporting its larval plants Gutierrezia sarothrae and Gutierrezia microcephalum, which are arid-adapted shrubs of the southwestern United States.
Distribution
United States: Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico.
Seasonality
males active October and November. Multiple per year.
Diet
Larvae feed on Gutierrezia sarothrae and Gutierrezia microcephalum (Asteraceae).
Host Associations
- Gutierrezia sarothrae - larval food plant
- Gutierrezia microcephalum - larval food plant
Life Cycle
occurs within tied leaves of the plant. Multiple per year.
Similar Taxa
- Other Synalocha speciesCongeneric may overlap in range; identification requires examination of genitalic and plant association.
More Details
Etymology
The specific epithet gutierreziae references the larval plant Gutierrezia.
Taxonomic history
Described by Jerry A. Powell in 1985, placing it within the tribe Sparganothini of Tortricinae.