Thyme Moth

Scrobipalpa artemisiella

Checklist Number
35.120 [B&F: 0820]

Verification
Record requires retention of specimen until confirmed, and may require dissection. Consult with CMR if unsure

Classification

Family:Gelechiidae
Subfamily:Gelechiinae
Genus:Scrobipalpa
Species:artemisiella
Authority:(Treitschke, 1833)

Nationally scarce (Nb) on sandhills, dry limestone slopes and machair (vegetated shell-sand) throughout much of the British Isles, where suitable habitat exists. Not recorded in Hampshire or on the Isle of Wight to date. Wingspan 10-12 mm. Being one of the smallest members of the family, although variable in wing markings, can usually be identified without reference to genitalia (MBGBI Vol 4 part 2). Larva feeds on Wild Thyme, living within a silken web.