Poplar Leaf Miner Moth
Common NamePoplar Leaf Miner Moth
Scientific NameStigmella populetorum
FamilyNepticulidae
SubfamilyNepticulinae
Wingspan (mm)4.5
Primary Colorsdark brown, yellowish-white, metallic purple
HabitatWoodlands, parks, gardens, and areas with poplar trees
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host PlantsPopulus tremula, Populus alba, Populus nigra, Populus canescens
Flight PeriodMay to June, and July to August/September (bivoltine)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are leaf miners, creating characteristic blotch mines on the leaves of Populus species. The mine starts as a narrow gallery before expanding into an irregular blotch, often filled with frass. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, typically on the ground.
Identification TipsAdults are identified by their small size and the specific wing pattern. Field identification is most reliably done by observing the distinctive leaf mine on Populus leaves, which begins as a narrow gallery and expands into an irregular blotch, often near the leaf margin, with frass concentrated in a central line or scattered.
Description
A minute moth with dark brown, somewhat iridescent forewings, characterized by a distinct pale yellowish-white transverse band (fascia) and a metallic purplish sheen.
