Stigmella apicialbella
Common NameStigmella apicialbella
Scientific NameStigmella apicialbella
FamilyNepticulidae
SubfamilyNepticulinae
Wingspan (mm)4
Primary Colorsdark brown, black, silver, white
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands
Geographic RangeEastern and Central North America
Host PlantsQuercus spp. (oaks)
Flight PeriodApril to May, July to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are leaf miners, creating a narrow, linear mine on oak leaves with a central frass line; pupation occurs in a cocoon outside the mine.
Identification TipsAdults are identified by their minute size, dark forewings with an apical pale spot, and the characteristic linear leaf mine on oak. Microscopic examination of genitalia is often required for definitive species identification.
Description
A minute moth with dark fuscous (dark brownish-grey to blackish) forewings, characterized by a distinct pale (whitish or silvery) spot or fascia near the apex.
