Leucospilapteryx n.sp.

(Clemens, 1860)

Sort #: 268 | MPG #: 697.98
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Larval feeding type: Large underside leaf-mine at tip of leaf, pupates outside the mine in a silken cocoon
Larval substrate: Dichanthelium clandestinum* (Deer-tongue Rosette-panicgrass)
Phenology: Adult: 8/25 to 9/16 (3 records)

Comment: Tentatively placed in Leucospilapteryx due to similarity with L. venustella. Can be mistaken for that species, but the new species has no banding on the front tarsi. Acrocercops astericola is also similar, but that species has banded tarsi and lacks the white along the base of the dorsum.

Status in MA (automated assessment): Fairly widespread, uncommon
Status in N. America: Native
MA Endangered Species Act status: None
First Year Reported: 2008
Last Year Reported: 2020

Distribution by County: Franklin, Worcester, Middlesex, Norfolk, Plymouth
Number of Records: 12