Anacampsis blattariella

Birch sober

Description

Anacampsis blattariella, commonly known as the birch sober, is a moth belonging to the family Gelechiidae. It is predominantly found across Europe, with the exception of Ireland, the Iberian Peninsula, and the majority of the Balkan Peninsula. This gray moth species has a wingspan ranging from 16 to 19 mm. Adult moths are on the wings between the months of July and September. The larvae of Anacampsis blattariella primarily feed on various species of Betula spp., commonly known as birch trees. The larvae can typically be found during the months of May and June. Larvae exhibit a unique behavior where they roll a leaf of their host plant predominantly (but not exclusively) longitudinally along the midrib, creating a sheltered feeding area. Once the larval stage is complete, pupation takes place within the leaf.

Symptom

Larvae exhibit a unique behavior where they roll a leaf of their host plant predominantly (but not exclusively) longitudinally along the midrib, creating a sheltered feeding area. It is very typical that the leaf is kept rolled up with the help of short white ties made of white fibers, which the caterpillar uses to strengthen the leaf blade. These white ties are typical also for other species of Gelechidae and are not found in species of Tortricidae, which also curl leaves in a similar manner.

Tree Species: Birch

Part of a plant- attacked: Leaf / Needle

Pest significance: Less harmful

Pest Category: Insects

Present in EU: Yes