Sweetgum Leafminer
Common NameSweetgum Leafminer
Scientific NamePhyllocnistis liquidambarisella
FamilyGracillariidae
SubfamilyPhyllocnistinae
Wingspan (mm)3.5
Primary Colorssilver, white, brown
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, parks, and cultivated areas where sweetgum trees are present.
Geographic RangeEastern North America, corresponding to the range of its host plant, Liquidambar styraciflua.
Host PlantsSweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
Flight PeriodMultiple generations from spring (April/May) through fall (September/October).
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on sweetgum leaves, and the larvae hatch and tunnel within the leaf epidermis, creating a characteristic serpentine mine. Pupation occurs within the mine, often at the edge of the leaf, before the adult moth emerges.
Identification TipsThe most reliable identification in the field is by the characteristic serpentine mines on sweetgum leaves, which appear as silvery trails with a central frass line. Adult moths are tiny and require magnification for species-level identification, but their silvery appearance and specific wing patterns are key.
Description
The adult Sweetgum Leafminer is a minute moth, typically silvery-white with delicate dark markings and often metallic scales on its wings. The image, however, depicts the larval stage, which creates a distinctive serpentine mine on sweetgum leaves.
