Plantain Leaf Miner
Common NamePlantain Leaf Miner
Scientific NameParectopa plantaginisella
FamilyGracillariidae
SubfamilyGracillariinae
Wingspan (mm)6.5
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsdark brown, white
HabitatMeadows, grasslands, disturbed areas, roadsides
Geographic RangeNorth America
Host PlantsPlantago major, Plantago lanceolata, Plantago rugelii
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are leaf miners, creating an irregular blotch mine on the upper surface of Plantago leaves. Pupation typically occurs within the mine.
Identification TipsThe most distinctive feature for identification is the characteristic blotch mine found on Plantago leaves. Adult moths are identified by their minute size and specific pattern of white markings on dark forewings.
Description
A very small, slender moth with dark brown to blackish forewings adorned with intricate white markings, including a prominent white streak along the costa and a white tornal spot.
