Adult Recognition
FWL: 8.0-9.0 mm
The forewing pattern of A. robinsoniana varies greatly. Obraztsov (1963) described six distinct forms that were present in the type series; the nominate form is brown with a pale-yellow streak along the dorsal margin. In one of the more common forms the forewing is brown on the distal half and gray or white on the basal half with a dark-brown to black mark on the dorsum. Males lack a forewing costal fold.
Acleris robinsoniana may appear similar to other species of Acleris, specifically certain forms of A. fragariana, A. inana, A. keiferi, A. maculidorsana, and A. variegana. A genitalic dissection can be used to confirm species identity.
Larval Morphology
Larvae are yellowish or light green. Late instar individuals have a brown head, a dark-brown prothoracic shield, and brown to dark-brown legs. Earlier instars lack these markings and the prothoracic shield and legs are concolorous with the abdomen.
Biology
Acleris robinsoniana completes one or two generations per year. Adults are usually present in May or June.
Early instar larvae fold or tie newly developing leaves and feed on the upper surface. Later instars fold leaves and consume the apical half. Individuals overwinter as adults.
Host plants
Larvae of this species have only been recorded feeding on California wildrose and quaking aspen.
| Family | Genus/species | Common name |
| Rosaceae | Rosa californica Cham. & Schltdl. | California wildrose |
| Salicaceae | Populus tremuloides Michx. | quaking aspen |
Distribution
Acleris robinsoniana is distributed from the northeastern United States across southern Canada to British Columbia and south to California.
References
Obraztsov, N. S. 1963. Some North American moths of the genus Acleris. Proceedings of the United States National Museum. 114: 213-270.
Powell, J. A. 1964. Biological and taxonomic studies on tortricine moths, with reference to the species in California. University of California Publications in Entomology. Vol. 32. 317 pp.
