Gaultheria Leafminer Moth
Common NameGaultheria Leafminer Moth
Scientific NamePhyllonorycter gaultheriella
FamilyGracillariidae
SubfamilyLithocolletinae
Wingspan (mm)7
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorscoppery-brown, white, dark brown
HabitatForests, woodlands, heathlands where host plants are present
Geographic RangeNorth America (Pacific Northwest, including British Columbia, Washington, Oregon)
Host PlantsGaultheria shallon, Gaultheria procumbens
Flight PeriodApril to May, July to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are leaf miners, creating distinctive blotch mines on the leaves of Gaultheria species, where they also pupate.
Identification TipsKey features include its minute size, the coppery-brown and white banded forewing pattern, and its specific association with Gaultheria host plants, where its larval mines can be found.
Description
A very small moth with coppery-brown forewings featuring prominent white transverse bands and dark markings, often with a metallic luster.
