Alder Signal
Common NameAlder Signal
Scientific NameStigmella glutinosae
FamilyNepticulidae
SubfamilyNepticulinae
Wingspan (mm)3.5
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsyellow, orange, black, blue
HabitatWetlands, riparian zones, moist woodlands where alder trees are present
Geographic RangeEurope
Host PlantsAlnus glutinosa, Alnus incana
Flight PeriodMay to June, and July to August (bivoltine)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are leaf miners, creating characteristic serpentine mines within the leaves of alder trees. Pupation occurs outside the mine in a cocoon.
Identification TipsKey features include its extremely small size, the distinctive yellowish-orange forewings with dark banding and an apical tuft, and the presence of iridescent blue scales on the thorax. It is typically found in association with alder trees.
Description
A minute moth with yellowish-orange forewings marked by irregular dark brown to black bands and a prominent dark scale tuft near the apex. The body exhibits iridescent blue scales.
