Food Plant: Epiobium hirsutum (Great Willowherb)

Gall: May-July

Notes: The larva lives in the pith of the stem, causing galling. It generally feeds upwards and prefers flowering side stalks. The spindle shaped gall may be red (as shown) and up to 15mm long and 4mm wide. Before pupation the larva bores a hole, through which the moth will emerge, leaving the upper epidermis intact. Widely distributed, but possibly overlooked. Occurs in marshes, damp fields and ditches. May occur in dry habitats in urban areas.

National Status: Nationally Scarce B

Bradley No: 889a

Data: 14.viii.2011, Hilsea Lines NR, Portsmouth, Hants, VC11

Image:© John Langmaid

References:
Koster S & Sinev S (2003), The Microlepidoptera of Europe, 5, Momphidae s.l.
Emmet AM & Langmaid JR (2002), The MOths and Butterflies of Great Britain and Ireland, 4(1)
Langmaid JR, Palmer SM & Young MR (2018), A Field Guide to the Smaller Moths of Great Britain and Ireland