Oak Leaf Blotch Miner
Common NameOak Leaf Blotch Miner
Scientific NameChrysaster ostensackenella
FamilyGracillariidae
SubfamilyLithocolletinae
Wingspan (mm)4
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsgolden-orange, white, brown
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, areas with oak trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host PlantsQuercus alba, Quercus bicolor, Quercus macrocarpa, Quercus prinoides, Quercus rubra
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are leaf miners, creating distinctive blotch mines on the upper surface of oak leaves, where they also pupate.
Identification TipsKey features include its minute size, the striking metallic golden-orange and white banding on the forewings, and its larval association with oak leaf mines.
Description
A very small moth characterized by its metallic golden-orange and white banded forewings, set against a darker brown background, and a tufted head.
