Micrurapteryx occulta

(Braun, 1922)

Sort #: 214 | P #: 330106 | MPG #: 654
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Larval feeding type: Upperside leaf-miner, pupates outside the mine is a silken cocoon
Larval substrate: Lathyrus japonicus (Beach Pea), Vicia caroliniana, Melilotus officinalis, Medicago lupulina
Phenology: Adult: 7/24 to 7/31 (2 records)

Comment: Adults are very similar to M. salicifoliella, so very difficult to impossible to distinguish from photos. The two records so far are likely to be incorrect. However, there is no reason why the species should not occur in the State. Until larvae are found, the status of the species will remain as 'Uncertain occurrence'. Some of the records of adult M. salicifoliella may in fact be M. occulta.

Status in MA (automated assessment): Uncertain occurrence
Status in N. America: Native
MA Endangered Species Act status: None
First Year Reported: 2008
Last Year Reported: 2013

Distribution by County: Middlesex
Number of Records: 2