Lyonetia clerkella

Apple leaf miner

Description

Lyonetia clerkella, also known as the apple leaf miner, is a species of moth belonging to the family Lyonetiidae within the Lepidoptera order. Its larvae are known to mine the leaves of their host plants, with the long mine starting near the main vein. The apple leaf miner typically lives for two generations, from June to September. Adults of the first generation can be observed flying from June to August, while adults of the second generation emerge in September. These overwinter and reappear in the spring. This species is known to occur in various habitats, but it is particularly abundant in orchards where apple trees are present. It is widespread across Europe, Asia, and North America, and is a common pest in apple orchards.

Symptom

The mine starts near the main vein and it is a narrow serpentine track that can be seen on the surface of the leaf. As the larva grows, the mine becomes longer and wider, and may even branch out into several directions. The mine is initially white, but as the larva feeds and grows, it turns brownish and becomes more noticeable on the leaf. It is much longer than similar mines of Stigmella species.

Tree Species: Elm, Cherry, Pear, Apple Tree, Rowan, Whitebeam, Cotoneaster

Part of a plant- attacked: Leaf / Needle

Pest significance: Less harmful

Pest Category: Insects

Invasive Species: No

Present in EU: Yes