Scarce Maple Pigmy
Common NameScarce Maple Pigmy
Scientific NameStigmella aceris
FamilyNepticulidae
SubfamilyNepticulinae
Wingspan (mm)4
Primary Colorsdark brown, coppery-golden, white, iridescent purple
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, parks, gardens, and areas with maple trees
Geographic RangeEurope
Host PlantsAcer campestre, Acer platanoides, Acer pseudoplatanus
Flight PeriodMay to June, and July to August (bivoltine)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are leaf miners, creating characteristic blotch mines on the leaves of various maple species. Pupation typically occurs in a cocoon on the ground.
Identification TipsKey features for identification include its extremely small size, the iridescent dark forewings with a distinct coppery-golden band, a prominent white head tuft, and its larval association with maple trees as a leaf miner.
Description
A minute moth with dark, iridescent forewings featuring a prominent coppery-golden transverse band and a contrasting white head tuft.
