Coleophora trifolii

(Curtis, 1832)
Large Clover Casebearer

Sort #: 1276 | P #: 591646.1 | MPG #: 1388 | PFG Page #: 56
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Larval feeding type: Seed feeder, in a tubular silk seed case
Larval substrate: Melilotus (Sweet Clover)
Phenology: Adult: 5/26 to 7/01 (12 records)

Comment: The largest of the metallic species known to occur in the State (FWL 6.0-9.3mm), males tend to be larger than females. The male only has the first antennal segment thickened, whereas the first four are thickened in the female and therefore could be confused with the smalle C. deaureatella. In C. trifolii, the post ocular scales are yellow, but dark brown in C.deaureatella (visible under a strong hand lens, or close photo).

Status in MA (automated assessment): Restricted distribution, uncommon
Status in N. America: Introduced
MA Endangered Species Act status: None
First Year Reported: 2013
Last Year Reported: 2025

Distribution by County: Franklin, Worcester, Middlesex, Essex
Number of Records: 13