Willow Leaf Blotch Miner Moth
Common NameWillow Leaf Blotch Miner Moth
Scientific NamePhyllonorycter salictella
FamilyGracillariidae
SubfamilyLithocolletinae
Wingspan (mm)7
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, white, black
HabitatWetlands, riparian zones, forests, and gardens where willows are present
Geographic RangeHolarctic (Europe, North America, parts of Asia)
Host PlantsSalix spp. (willows), Populus spp. (poplars), Betula spp. (birches)
Flight PeriodApril to October (multiple generations)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are leaf miners, creating characteristic blotch mines on the underside of host plant leaves, primarily willows. Pupation occurs within the mine, and there are typically two to three generations per year.
Identification TipsKey features include its minute size, the distinctive resting posture with wings held flat, and the intricate, mottled pattern of dark and light scales. Identification is often aided by observing the specific blotch mines created on willow leaves.
Description
A very small, slender moth with a cryptic pattern of dark brown and white blotches and streaks on its wings, which are held flat over its body at rest. It possesses long, slender antennae.
