Caloptilia rhoifoliella

(Chambers, 1876)
Sumac Leafblotch Miner

Sort #: 259 | P #: 330198 | MPG #: 630
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Larval feeding type: Initially lives as a leaf-miner. After vacating the mine, the larva pulls the tips of leaves into a tight roll and feeds within. The larva moves into at least a second roll before pupating. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon similar to the other members of the genus, but it is usually a bit broader and more spherical. Pupation often (?always) takes place within the final leaf-roll. The species appears to be heavily parasitized.
Larval substrate: Rhus hirta* (Staghorn Sumac), Rhus copallinum* (Winged Sumac), Rhus glabra* (Smooth Sumac), Toxicodendron radicans* (Poison Ivy), Schinus (Pepper Tree), Cotinus coggygria* (European smoketree)
Phenology: Adult: 6/16 to 9/12 and 10/09 to 4/28 (37 records)

Comment: Likely overwinters as an adult and has at least two overlapping generations, so that both adults and larvae can be found from June to September.

Status in MA (automated assessment): Widespread, very common
Status in N. America: Native
MA Endangered Species Act status: None
First Year Reported: 1880
Last Year Reported: 2025

Distribution by County: Berkshire, Hampden, Hampshire, Franklin, Worcester, Middlesex, Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk, Bristol, Plymouth, Barnstable, Dukes, Nantucket
Number of Records: 101