Virginia Creeper Leafminer Moth
Common NameVirginia Creeper Leafminer Moth
Scientific NamePhyllocnistis ampelopsiella
FamilyGracillariidae
SubfamilyPhyllocnistinae
Wingspan (mm)3.5
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorssilvery-white, brown, black
HabitatWoodlands, forest edges, gardens, and areas with host plants
Geographic RangeEastern North America (Canada to Florida, west to Texas)
Host PlantsParthenocissus quinquefolia, Vitis
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple generations)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are leaf miners, creating characteristic serpentine mines on the leaves of Virginia creeper and grape. Pupation occurs within the mine.
Identification TipsKey features include its extremely small size, silvery-white forewings with faint dark markings, and the presence of serpentine leaf mines on Virginia creeper or grape leaves.
Description
A minute moth with a silvery-white body and slender forewings, often featuring subtle dark streaks or spots, and a brownish head. It is typically found resting on or near its host plants.
