Donacaula longirostrallus

(Clemens, 1860)
Long-beaked Donacaula

Sort #: 1433 | P3 #: 800715 | MPG #: 5319 | PFG Page #: 154
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Larval feeding type: European species of the genus are known to feed on various parts of the foodplants, pupating in the stem
Larval substrate: Unknown, but presumably marsh or aquatic plants, e.g. Carex (Sedge), Phragmites (Reed), Scirpus (Bulrush), Spartina (Cordgrass)
Phenology: Adult: 6/14 to 8/01 (19 records)

Comment: One of the easier Donacaula species to identify. It is brownish-white or -pale yellow, darker towards the costa. There is a prominent dark streak (not dotted) from just above the dorsum at about two thirds and going straight into the apex of the wing. Unlike other Donacaula species, the female is similar to the male and does not have markedly more pointed wings. This, coupled with quite different male and female genitalia to other Donacaula species, suggests that this species would be better placed in a different genus.

Status in MA (automated assessment): Fairly widespread, uncommon
Status in N. America: Native
MA Endangered Species Act status: None
First Year Reported: 1917
Last Year Reported: 2020

Distribution by County: Hampshire, Worcester, Middlesex, Plymouth, Barnstable
Number of Records: 19