Orache Leafminer Moth
Common NameOrache Leafminer Moth
Scientific NameColeophora versurella
FamilyColeophoridae
SubfamilyColeophorinae
Wingspan (mm)12
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsblack, yellow, white, brown
HabitatCoastal areas, salt marshes, disturbed ground, gardens
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, Asia, introduced to North America
Host PlantsAtriplex, Chenopodium, Salsola
Flight PeriodJune to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are leafminers, creating blotch mines on host plant leaves, then constructing a portable case from leaf fragments to feed externally and pupate.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the distinctive pattern of dark forewings with bright yellow/orange bands, and its association with Orache and Goosefoot host plants. The larval case is also diagnostic.
Description
A small, slender moth with dark forewings featuring prominent, irregular yellow or orange transverse bands and white speckling, often with a brownish patch near the tornus. Its antennae are long and slender.
