Stigmella desperatella

Checklist Number
04.029 [B&F: 0105]

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

Classification

Family:Nepticulidae
Subfamily:Nepticulinae
Genus:Stigmella
Species:desperatella
Authority:(Frey, 1856)

Endangered (proposed as a future Red Data Book species) in woodland in parts of England. Not recorded in Hampshire or on the Isle of Wight to date. Wingspan 4-5 mm. Adults difficult to distinguish from other Stigmella species, and more frequently recorded in the larval stage, when mines are relatively easy to find where they are present. Larva mines leaves of Crab Apple, over-wintering as a pupa.