Caloptilia hemidactylella

Checklist Number
15.013 [B&F: 0291]

Verification
Record will require further evidence, at least a good photograph, unless CMR is aware recorder has confidence in identification

Classification

Family:Gracillariidae
Subfamily:Gracillariinae
Genus:Caloptilia
Species:hemidactylella
Authority:([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775)

Endangered (proposed as a future Red Data Book species) in woodland edges and hedgerows in parts of the West Midlands, notably in Whittlebury Forest, Northamptonshire. Unlikely to be recorded in Hampshire or on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 12-14 mm. Very similar to variegated forms of C. elongella and C. betulicola, from which it can be distinguished by its smaller size, the more distinct reddish brown fascia before the costal blotch and the three red-brown lines in the terminal cilia (MBGBI Vol 2). Larva mines leaves of Sycamore, subsequently living within a leaf-fold.