About Aphelia alleniana (Fernald, 1882)
Aphelia alleniana, commonly known as the wide-striped leafroller or Allen's tortrix moth, is a moth species belonging to the family Tortricidae. This species is native to northern North America, with a broad distribution across Canada that ranges as far north as Alaska. In the United States, it has been recorded in Colorado, Idaho, Maine, and Montana. For its life cycle, adult Aphelia alleniana are active in flight from late June to mid-July. The species is univoltine, meaning it produces one generation per year. This trait is typical for tortricid moths living in northern latitudes that have short growing seasons. The larvae feed mainly on herbaceous plants, though they may also feed on deciduous and coniferous woody plants. Like other leafroller moths, the larvae use silk to tie or roll leaves together. These rolled or tied leaves form shelters where the larvae feed, and are protected from predators and harsh environmental conditions. Larvae go through five instars during their development. The species overwinters as a third instar larva inside a folded leaf. When spring arrives, overwintering larvae begin feeding again before they finish their development and enter the pupal stage. Pupation usually takes place inside the larval leaf shelter.
