Heliozela sericiella explained

Heliozela sericiella is a moth of the Heliozelidae family found in Europe. The larvae mine the twigs of oaks, causing a gall.[1]

Description

The wingspan is 6–8 mm.[1] [2] Head dark bronzy. Forewings bronzy-grey ; a small indistinct whitish spot on dorsum towards base, and a larger distinct one beyond middle. Hind wings grey.[3] Adults are on wing in May and June in one generation per year.

The larvae feed on Quercus petraea, Quercus pubescens, Quercus robur and Quercus suber. Pupation takes place in the soil. The pupa overwinters.[4] Larvae can be found from June to July.

Distribution

It is found in most of Europe, except Spain, Slovenia and most of the Balkan Peninsula.[5]

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Kimber . Ian . Heliozela sericiella (Haworth, 1828) . UKmoths . 26 October 2022.
  2. https://archive.today/20120715231958/http://webh01.ua.ac.be/vve/Checklists/Lepidoptera/Heliozelidae/Hsericiella.htm Lepidoptera of Belgium
  3. Meyrick, E., 1895 A Handbook of British Lepidoptera MacMillan, London pdf Keys and description
  4. Web site: Ellis . W N . Heliozela sericiella (Haworth, 1828) oak satin lift . Plant Parasites of Europe . 26 October 2022.
  5. Web site: Heliozela sericiella (Haworth, 1828) . Fauna Europaea . 26 October 2022.