Coleotechnites (Recurvaria) starki (Gelechiidae)

northern lodgepole needleminer

Adults:

Small grey moths. When at rest the wings are folded back giving the moth a very narrow appearance.

Larvae:

Coleotechnites starki, the northern lodgepole needleminer, larvae. Vary in colour from lemon yellow to reddish orange - black heads. Small.


Damage:

Damage caused by Coleotechnites starki larvae mining in pine needles. Eggs are deposited in previously mined needles and near the base of new needles. Larvae migrate on hatching and quickly bore into individual needles that are usually two or more years old. Usually only one larva enters each needle, remains over winter. Feeding is resumed in the spring and migration to new foliage begins. During a year each larva may mine at least five needles. Pupae remain in last mined needles.


Principal Hosts:

lodgepole pine

Economic Importance:

Long-sustained and destructive outbreaks of this insect occur sporadically, usually in extensive stands of mature lodgepole pine. Although defoliation may be severe, growth reduction is the principal effect.

References and Links:

FC: 177, 180.