Aspen Petiole Gall Moth
Common NameAspen Petiole Gall Moth
Scientific NameEctoedemia populella
FamilyNepticulidae
SubfamilyNepticulinae
Wingspan (mm)5
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey
HabitatAspen forests and woodlands
Geographic RangeNorth America
Host PlantsPopulus tremuloides, Populus grandidentata
Flight PeriodMay to July (adults)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on aspen petioles, and the larvae bore into the petiole, inducing the formation of a characteristic gall where they feed and develop. Pupation typically occurs in the leaf litter after the larva exits the gall.
Identification TipsAdult moths are extremely small and difficult to observe or identify in the field. Identification is most reliably made by observing the distinctive, spherical galls on the petioles of aspen leaves, which are caused by the larval stage of this moth.
Description
The Aspen Petiole Gall Moth is a minute, dark brownish-grey micromoth, typically inconspicuous due to its small size and cryptic coloration.
