Teleiodes luculella
Common NameTeleiodes luculella
Scientific NameTeleiodes luculella
FamilyGelechiidae
SubfamilyTeleiodinae
Wingspan (mm)10
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsblack, white, brown, grey
HabitatWoodlands, forests, areas with oak trees
Geographic RangeEurope (widespread, including Great Britain, Central and Eastern Europe)
Host PlantsQuercus robur, Quercus petraea
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are leaf-miners on oak trees, creating blotch mines. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, often in detritus or soil.
Identification TipsKey features include the specific forewing pattern with a prominent white costal streak and the arrangement of dark markings. Association with oak trees is also a strong indicator, though genitalia examination may be needed for definitive identification from very similar species.
Description
A small moth with cryptically patterned forewings, mottled in black, white, and shades of brown/grey, featuring a distinct white streak along the costa and several dark spots.
