Species Prionapteryx nebulifera - Clouded Veneer - Hodges#5333

5333

First described in 1834 by James Francis Stephens as Prionapteryx nebulifera

nebulifera is from Latin nebula- "mist, fog, clouds" + fera- "bearing"

Reported on plants in the Heather Family (Ericaceae), including Sand Myrtle, Leiophyllum buxifolium, and Huckleberries (presumably Gaylussacia, but possibly Vaccinium).

There is a published account of the caterpillars in the pine barrens of NJ living in underground retreats and building tubes of sand and silk up to the leaves of the host plants, which crawl through at night to feed. They are also said to produce a secretion fed on by ants, which protect them. They were found pupating in the same chambers.

Illustrations of British Entomology, v.4, p.317    Stephens' original description of the species

Entomological News, v.16(1905), p.12    An interesting observation of larval habits.