Coptodisca lucifluella
Common NameCoptodisca lucifluella
Scientific NameCoptodisca lucifluella
FamilyHeliozelidae
Wingspan (mm)5.5
Primary Colorswhite, brown, black, gold, blue
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, areas with oak trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America (eastern United States and southeastern Canada)
Host PlantsOak (Quercus spp.), White Oak (Quercus alba), Red Oak (Quercus rubra), Black Oak (Quercus velutina)
Flight PeriodMay to June, and August to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are leaf miners, creating distinctive mines in the leaves of oak trees. It typically has two generations per year, with pupation occurring within the mine or on the ground.
Identification TipsDistinguishable by its very small size, metallic sheen, specific dark and white wing patterns, and its association with oak trees where its larvae create characteristic leaf mines.
Description
A minute moth characterized by its metallic, iridescent forewings featuring dark brown and white markings, and a prominent white fringe on the hindwings. Its head is often yellowish-brown.
