Phyllocnistis saligna

Willow bent-wing

Description

Willow bent-wing Phyllocnistis saligna is a small moth in the Gracillariidae family, found widely across Europe. With a wingspan of approximately 7 mm, this moth has two generations annually, with adults emerging in July and again from September. The larvae are specialized leaf miners that feed on various willow species, including Salix alba, Salix babylonica, Salix daphnoides, Salix × fragilis, Salix lanata, Salix matsudana, Salix purpurea, Salix × sepulcralis, Salix triandra, and Salix viminalis. The larvae create distinctive mines within the leaves, which are highly visible on the hosts.

Symptom

The presence of Phyllocnistis saligna is recognizable by serpentine mines on willow leaves, often following the leaf veins, which can reduce the aesthetic value and vitality of the trees as well as decrease photosynthesis. Mines are often also present on shoots.

Tree Species: Willow

Part of a plant- attacked: Leaf / Needle, Branch

Pest significance: Less harmful

Pest Category: Insects

Invasive Species: No

Present in EU: Yes