Phyllonorycter maestingella

Leaf miner Phyllonorycter maestingella

Description

Phyllonorycter maestingella is a moth whose larvae are known for creating blotch mines on the leaves of beech (Fagus spp.) trees. Female of Phyllonorycter maestingella lays its eggs on the underside of beech leaves, always near a side vein. The larva's mine begins as an elongated blotch, approximately 5-7 mm long, running alongside the vein. As the mine develops, it transforms into a long, tent-like structure (1.5 – 2 cm in size) on the lower surface of the leaf, typically situated between two side veins. The larva lives and pupates within the mine. The mine is also visible from the upper side of the leaf as a light-colored blotch. It is not an important pests, occuring frequently with potential decrease the aesthetical value of the trees localy. It is not a significant pest, but it occurs frequently and can locally reduce the aesthetic value of the trees.

Symptom

The larva's mine begins as an elongated blotch, approximately 5-7 mm long, running alongside the vein. As the mine develops, it transforms into a long, tent-like structure (1.5 – 2 cm in size) on the lower surface of the leaf, typically situated between two side veins. The mine is also visible from the upper side of the leaf as a light-colored blotch.

Tree Species: Beech

Part of a plant- attacked: Leaf / Needle

Pest significance: Less harmful

Pest Category: Insects

Invasive Species: No

Present in EU: Yes