Synonyms and other taxonomic changes
Mimoschinia rufofascialis (Stephens, 1834)
Ennychia rufofascialis Stephens, 1834
Many synonyms
* phylogentic sequence #145325
Explanation of Names
rufo (rufous-colored) + fascia (bands); refers to the reddish-colored bands on the forewing, and is the origin of the common name Rufous-banded Crambid.
Identification
Larva - strikingly beautiful. General body color is white, front half wine-red with partial bands of that color posteriorly. Rather like a barberpole, as its commom name suggests. Head is light yellow (adapted from Heinrich, 1921).
Range
Ontario; Alberta and British Columbia, south to Texas, west to California (E.H. Strickland Museum).
Season
Adults fly April to June in the mountains and coastal areas, August to September in deserts.
(2)Food
Larva is a seed-feeder of various Malvaceous plants. Heinrich reported them on
Indian mallow (
Abutilon),
false mallow (
Malvastrum),
wissadula (
Wissadula),
fanpetals (
Sida). Powell & Opler add
holleyhock (
Alcea) and
mallow (
Malvella).
(2)Remarks
Larvae are host for the braconid wasp
Bracon mellitor.
(3)Print References
Heinrich, C. 1921. Some Lepidoptera likely to be confused with the pink bollworm. Journal Agricultural Research 20(11):
829.
(4)
Powell, J.A. & P.A. Opler 2009. Moths of Western North America. pl.21.51, 21.52; p.171
(2)