Hodges#4623

Harrisina metallica

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Lepidoptera
Superfamily: Zygaenoidea
Family: Zygaenidae
Subfamily: Procridinae
Genus: Harrisina
Species: metallica

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Harrisina metallica: /həˈɹɪsɪnə mɪˈtælɪkə/

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

Images

Western Grapeleaf Skeletonizer - Harrisina metallica (10330246176) by gailhampshire from Cradley, Malvern, U.K. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

WesternGrapeleafSkeletonizerLarvae by Zindor. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Harrisina metallica by Whitney Cranshaw, Colorado State University, United States. Used under a CC BY 3.0 us license.

Summary

Harrisina metallica, commonly known as the western grapeleaf skeletonizer, is a moth that primarily feeds on grapes and is noted for its pest status in vineyards. Adults are on wing from April to October, while larvae can cause significant defoliation.

Physical Characteristics

Wingspan of 22–30 mm; adults have black bodies and wings with bluish or greenish tint; collar is dull orange or red except in form 'brillians' which has a black collar. Larvae are broadly striped with blue and yellow and have narrower black bands; late-instar larvae have black stinging hairs.

Identification Tips

Look for the distinctive blue or green tint on wings and the collar coloration. The presence of stinging hairs on caterpillars can also be an indication.

Habitat

Found in grape vineyards and areas where its host plants (grape and creeper) grow, predominantly in the Southwestern United States.

Distribution

Southwestern United States (southern California to central Texas, northern Colorado and Utah) and northern Mexico.

Diet

Larvae feed primarily on grapes (Vitis spp.) and species of creeper (Parthenocissus spp.).

Life Cycle

Overwinters as a pupa enclosed in a silken cocoon on the ground; adults emerge and lay eggs on leaves soon after bud-break in spring. Several generations occur per year.

Reproduction

Eggs are laid in clusters of 10-100 on the undersides of leaves.

Ecosystem Role

As larvae, they act as defoliators of grape crops, impacting vineyard ecosystems.

Economic Impact

Considered a severe pest in some California vineyards, affecting crop yield.

Health Concerns

Late-instar larvae have black hairs that may cause an allergic reaction or skin rash.

Misconceptions

Some people refer to larvae as 'grape worms' due to their feeding preferences.