Gracillariidae: Gracillariinae

0286 (ABH15.008) Caloptilia alchimiella, (Scopoli, 1763)

KR01110

Storrington, West Sussex, 30th May 2017. MV trap.
Storrington, West Sussex, 30th May 2017. MV trap.
 Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies
Storrington, West Sussex, 30th May 2017. MV trap.
 Photo © Nick Greatorex-Davies
 pre-2000
 2000-2009
 2010-2019
 2020-onwards


General Information

This species is difficult to distinguish from the recently separated C. robustella. Genital dissection is necessary for a conclusive identification, although the first generation appear around three weeks after C. robustella.

 

The larvae produce a narrow gallery leading to a squarish or triangular blotch. They then form up to three successive cones by folding the lobe of a leaf downwards.

Both sexes come to light.

Wingspan: 10-13mm
Foodplant(s): oaks (Quercus spp.)
Flying: One/two overlapping generations, May-July
UK Presence: Resident
National status: Common

Regional Information

Recorded in 8 (3%) of the 270 2km squares of Huntingdonshire.

Last recorded in August 2022

Recorded date range (Adult): 18 May to 20 October

Similar Species
 Photo © Barry Dickerson