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 redand 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. The pupa is shown, within a white cocoon. Widely distributed, but possibly overlooked. Occurs in marshes, damp fields and ditches. May occur in dry habitats in urban areas.

Data: 02.viii.2020, Plympton, Devon VC3

Image:© Bob Heckford