Lime Bent-wing
Common NameLime Bent-wing
Scientific NamePhyllonorycter messaniella
FamilyGracillariidae
SubfamilyLithocolletinae
Wingspan (mm)7
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsgolden-brown, white, dark brown
HabitatWoodlands, parks, gardens, urban areas
Geographic RangeEurope, North America, New Zealand, Australia
Host Plantsoak, lime, beech, chestnut, hazel, hornbeam, apple
Flight PeriodApril to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are leaf miners, creating blotch mines on the underside of host plant leaves, where pupation also occurs.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, characteristic golden-brown and white patterned forewings, and the bent-wing resting posture, often found near oak or lime trees.
Description
A very small moth with golden-brown forewings marked by distinct white streaks and dark lines, often resting with its wings bent upwards at the tips.
