Acrolepiopsis heppneri
Gaedike, 1984
Sort #: 375 | P3 #: 360135 | MPG #: 2490.1
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Larval feeding type: Skeletonizes leaf from frass-covered silken tube in Fall, later feeds openly
Larval substrate: Smilax hispida (Bristly Greenbriar), Smilax rotundifolia* (Carrion Flower)
Phenology: Adult: 8/05 to 10/18 (2 records)
Comment: Single generation of larvae in Aug-Sep, adult overwinters to at least May
Status in MA (automated assessment): Fairly widespread, fairly common
Status in N. America: Native
MA Endangered Species Act status: None
First Year Reported: 1942
Last Year Reported: 2023
Distribution by County: Middlesex, Essex, Norfolk, Bristol, Plymouth, Barnstable, Dukes, Nantucket
Number of Records: 21
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Adult reared from Smilax (Photo: ©S. Whitebread) -
Upperside of Smilax leaf showing larval feeding sign (Photo: ©S. Whitebread) -
Underside of Smilax leaf showing frass-covered shelter from which the young larva feeds (Photo: ©S. Whitebread) -
Almost fully grown larva feeding openly on the leaf underside (Photo: ©S. Whitebread) -
Larva preparing net-like cocoon (Photo: ©S. Whitebread) -
Pupa in net-like cocoon (Photo: ©S. Whitebread)