Grape Leafminer
Common NameGrape Leafminer
Scientific NamePhyllocnistis vitifoliella
FamilyGracillariidae
SubfamilyPhyllocnistinae
Wingspan (mm)4.5
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorswhite, cream, brown, black
HabitatVineyards, forests, and areas with wild grapevines
Geographic RangeEastern North America (from Canada south to Florida and west to Texas)
Host PlantsVitis riparia, Vitis aestivalis, Vitis labrusca, Vitis vinifera
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple generations)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are leaf miners, creating characteristic serpentine mines on the underside of grape leaves. Pupation occurs within the mine, and there are multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsKey features include its very small size, the iridescent white forewings with distinctive brown/tan banding, and the two prominent black spots near the termen. The serpentine leaf mines on grape leaves are also a strong indicator of its presence.
Description
A minute, slender moth with iridescent white forewings featuring intricate brown and tan bands, culminating in two prominent black spots near the wing tips.
