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Phyllonorycter heegeriella

Leaf miner Phyllonorycter heegeriella

Description

Phyllonorycter heegeriella is a small moth from the family Gracillariidae whose larvae create leaf mines on Quercus petraea and Quercus robur. It is widely distributed throughout Europe, except for the Iberian and Balkan Peninsulas. The species has two generations per year, with adults emerging in May and August. The larvae mine the underside of oak leaves, usually near a lobe, creating small, blister-like deformations. Although the infestation does not directly threaten tree survival, it can reduce the aesthetic value of leaves by causing discoloration and deformation. Heavily infested trees may experience premature leaf drop, which can weaken their overall health.

Symptom

The larvae form small, oval blister mines on the underside of oak leaves, often near a lobe, causing the tip to fold over. Compared to Macrodiplosis pustularis, which creates larger, irregular pustules, P. heegeriella mines are smaller, more defined, and usually remain localized.

Tree Species: Oak

Part of a plant- attacked: Leaf / Needle

Pest significance: Less harmful

Pest Category: Insects

Invasive Species: No

Present in EU: Yes