Dahlica triquetrella

(Hübner, 1812)

Sort #: 114 | P3 #: 300004 | MPG #: 436
View on BugGuide | View on iNaturalist | BOLD Link

Larval feeding type: Larva feeds from a silken case, 8-10mm long when fully-formed, ridged down the back and sides, giving a triangular profile with flat or even indented, not rounded, sides. It is adorned with a few chitinous insect parts such as ant head capsules, etc, especially around the mouth. The species is parthenogenetic in North America. The females emerge from their cases in early Spring and then lay their eggs inside the case.
Larval substrate: Various herbaceous plants, probably also leaf litter
Phenology: Adult: 5/16 (1 record)

Comment: The case could be confused with Dahlica lichenella, but is larger (8-10mm) and is usually adorned with chitinous insect parts.

Status in MA (automated assessment): Restricted distribution, uncommon
Status in N. America: Introduced
MA Endangered Species Act status: None
First Year Reported: 2007
Last Year Reported: 2022

Distribution by County: Berkshire, Middlesex, Essex
Number of Records: 15