Echium leaf miner
Common NameEchium leaf miner
Scientific NameDialectica scalariella
FamilyGracillariidae
SubfamilyGracillariinae
Wingspan (mm)7
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsbrown, white, grey
HabitatDry grasslands, pastures, disturbed areas, roadsides where host plants grow
Geographic RangeNative to Mediterranean region (Southern Europe, North Africa, Middle East); introduced to Australia, New Zealand, and parts of North America (e.g., California)
Host PlantsEchium plantagineum, Echium vulgare, Echium spp.
Flight PeriodMultiple generations from spring to autumn (e.g., April to November)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on *Echium* leaves, and larvae create serpentine mines within the leaves. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon, often within the mine or on the plant.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its very small size, the striking white stripe on dark forewings, and its resting posture with wings folded tightly along the body. Often found near *Echium* host plants.
Description
A tiny, slender micro-moth with dark brown or grey forewings featuring a prominent, sharply defined white longitudinal stripe from the base to the apex. The head often has a tuft of white scales.
