Eriococcus Caterpillar
Common NameEriococcus Caterpillar
Scientific NameGelechia turpella
FamilyGelechiidae
SubfamilyGelechiinae
Wingspan (mm)16
Primary Colorscream, brown, black
HabitatWoodlands, shrublands, riparian areas, parks, and gardens where host plants (poplar, willow) are present.
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host PlantsPopulus (poplar, aspen), Salix (willow)
Flight PeriodMay to August
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically leaf-miners or feed within spun leaves of Populus and Salix species. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, often in leaf litter or on the host plant.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its cryptic mottled brown and cream forewing pattern with iridescent scales, long filiform antennae, and hairy hind legs. Definitive species identification within the genus Gelechia often requires examination of genitalia.
Description
A small, slender moth with narrow, mottled forewings featuring irregular dark brown to black blotches and streaks on a creamy-tan background, often with a subtle metallic sheen. It has long filiform antennae and hairy hind legs.
