Insignis Leaf Miner Moth
Common NameInsignis Leaf Miner Moth
Scientific NamePhyllocnistis insignis
FamilyGracillariidae
SubfamilyPhyllocnistinae
Wingspan (mm)4.5
Primary Colorsblack, orange, white
HabitatForests, woodlands, and riparian areas where host plants (poplars, willows) are present
Geographic RangeEastern North America (eastern United States and parts of Canada)
Host PlantsPopulus spp., Salix spp.
Flight PeriodApril to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are obligate leaf miners, creating serpentine mines on the leaves of poplars and willows; pupation occurs within the mined leaf.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its minute size, the unique combination of the orange-gold stripe, white markings, and the black apical tuft on its dark forewings, often found near its host plants.
Description
A minute moth characterized by dark forewings adorned with a prominent orange-gold longitudinal stripe, intricate white markings, and a distinctive black scale tuft at the wing apex.
