Stigmella intermedia
Common NameStigmella intermedia
Scientific NameStigmella intermedia
FamilyNepticulidae
SubfamilyNepticulinae
Wingspan (mm)4
Primary Colorsdark brown, bronze, metallic grey, pale yellow
HabitatWoodlands, hedges, scrub, and gardens where host plants (Cornus sanguinea) are present.
Geographic RangeEurope
Host PlantsCornus sanguinea
Flight PeriodMay to June, and August (bivoltine)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larva is an endophagous leaf miner, creating a narrow, winding gallery filled with a continuous line of frass within the leaf. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon, usually in the soil or leaf litter, after the larva exits the mine.
Identification TipsThe most reliable identification is by the characteristic serpentine leaf mine on *Cornus sanguinea* leaves, which starts very narrow and gradually widens, with a continuous central frass line. Adult identification typically requires microscopic examination of genitalia.
Description
A minute moth (wingspan ~4mm) whose larvae create distinctive, long, winding serpentine mines on the leaves of *Cornus sanguinea*. The adult moth is dark bronzy-brown with a pale median fascia.
