Stigmella rhamnicola
Common NameStigmella rhamnicola
Scientific NameStigmella rhamnicola
FamilyNepticulidae
SubfamilyNepticulinae
Wingspan (mm)4.5
Primary Colorsbronze-black, pale yellow
HabitatWoodlands, hedgerows, scrubland where host plants are present
Geographic RangeEurope
Host PlantsRhamnus cathartica, Rhamnus frangula
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are leaf miners, creating a distinctive serpentine mine within the leaves of Rhamnus species. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, typically in the soil or leaf litter, after the larva exits the mine.
Identification TipsIdentification is primarily by the characteristic serpentine leaf mine on Rhamnus species, which has a distinct central frass line. Adult moths are tiny and require microscopic examination for definitive species identification.
Description
The image displays a serpentine leaf mine on a green leaf, characterized by a narrow initial track widening into a broader path with a central line of frass. The adult moth is a minute, dark bronze-black micromoth, often featuring a pale transverse fascia.
