White-based Mompha
Common NameWhite-based Mompha
Scientific NameMompha lacteella
FamilyMomphidae
Wingspan (mm)9.5
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, black, white, orange
HabitatDamp areas, woodlands, gardens, waste ground
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia, North Africa
Host PlantsGreat Hairy Willowherb, Small-flowered Willowherb, Broad-leaved Willowherb
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are internal feeders, initially mining leaves of willowherbs before forming galls in stems or feeding in seed pods. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, often on the ground.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive mottled brown and white pattern, especially the white head/thorax area, and the presence of raised scale tufts on the forewings. Its association with Epilobium species is also a key indicator.
Description
A small, slender micro-moth characterized by its cryptic, mottled pattern of dark brown, black, and white, with a noticeable white patch near the head and subtle orange markings.
