« Back

Phyllonorycter joannisi

White-bodied midget

Description

Phyllonorycter joannisi is a leaf-mining moth from the family Gracillariidae, primarily associated with maple (prefers Acer platanoides). Its larvae create distinctive mines on the underside of leaves, affecting the aesthetics and vitality of the host tree. The species is distributed throughout most of Europe, except for the Iberian Peninsula and the Balkans. It has two generations per year, with adults emerging in May and August. The larvae mine the leaves from spring to autumn, feeding on leaf tissues and causing premature leaf discoloration. Heavy infestations may contribute to early leaf fall, indirectly weakening the host tree, though they usually do not cause significant damage. Pupation occurs within the mine.

Symptom

The mine is a medium to large, greyish-white, tentiform blotch on the underside of the leaf, often centrally located. The lower epidermis forms numerous weak folds. The roof of the mine remains green until a late stage when the tissue is fully consumed. Frequently, multiple mines occur on a single leaf.

Tree Species: Maple

Part of a plant- attacked: Leaf / Needle

Pest significance: Less harmful

Pest Category: Insects

Invasive Species: No

Present in EU: Yes