Larch-specialist
Guides
Coleophora laricella
Larch Casebearer Moth, Western Larch Case-bearer
Coleophora laricella is a case-bearing moth native to Central and Northern Europe, where it feeds on European larch (Larix decidua). Introduced to North America in the mid-19th century, it has become a significant invasive pest of Larix species, particularly western larch (L. occidentalis) and tamarack (L. laricina). The species produces one generation annually, with larvae that mine inside larch needles and construct portable cases from hollowed-out foliage. Severe infestations can reduce annual tree growth by 97% after five years, causing substantial economic losses and increasing host susceptibility to secondary pests and diseases.
Coleotechnites laricis
orange larch tubemaker
Coleotechnites laricis, the orange larch tubemaker, is a small gelechiid moth with a wingspan of 10.5–13 mm. It is found in eastern Canada and the north-eastern United States, where its larvae are specialized feeders on eastern larch. The species has one generation per year.
Eupithecia lariciata
Larch Pug
Eupithecia lariciata, commonly known as the larch pug, is a small moth in the family Geometridae. It is widely distributed across the Northern Hemisphere, occurring in Europe, Asia, and North America. The species has been documented visiting apple flowers, contributing to nocturnal pollination services in orchard ecosystems. Like other members of the genus Eupithecia, it exhibits the characteristic narrow-winged morphology and distinctive resting posture typical of 'pug' moths.