Stigmella nigriverticella
Scientific NameStigmella nigriverticella
FamilyNepticulidae
SubfamilyNepticulinae
Wingspan (mm)4
Primary Colorsdark brown, cream
HabitatWoodlands, hedgerows, gardens, and areas with host plants
Geographic RangeEurope (widespread across Western and Central Europe, extending into parts of Eastern Europe)
Host PlantsCrataegus (hawthorn), Malus (apple), Pyrus (pear)
Flight PeriodMay to June, and July to August (bivoltine)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are leaf miners, creating a characteristic contorted linear mine on the upper surface of hawthorn leaves, often ending in a blotch. Pupation occurs in a cocoon outside the mine.
Identification TipsKey identification features include its very small size, the dark head tuft, the prominent creamy-white median fascia on dark forewings, and the specific leaf mine pattern on its hawthorn host plants.
Description
A minute moth with dark brown forewings featuring a distinct, broad, creamy-white fascia (band) across the middle. The head tuft is dark, contrasting with the pale collar.
