Acrolepiopsis heppneri

Gaedike, 1984

Sort #: 403 | P #: 360231 | MPG #: 2490.1
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Larval feeding type: The larva feeds in the Fall. It constructs a frass-covered silken shelter on the underside of a leaf, usually along a midrib or major vein, from which it skeletonizes the surrounding area; later it feeds openly on the underside of the leaf, skeletonizing larger areas. The feeding signs are readily visible from above.
Larval substrate: Smilax hispida (Bristly Greenbriar), Smilax rotundifolia* (Roundleaf Greebriar)
Phenology: Larva: 8/17 to 9/24 (4 records); Adult: 8/05 to 10/18 (2 records)

Comment: Single generation of larvae in Aug-Sep, adult overwinters to at least May and probably later.

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: 2024

Distribution by County: Middlesex, Essex, Norfolk, Bristol, Plymouth, Barnstable, Dukes, Nantucket
Number of Records: 23