Adelidae

07.014 Dark-dotted Longhorn Nematopogon metaxella (Hübner, [1813])

Local

Similar species: Nematopogon schwarziellus is on average larger (7 to 8mm) with a narrower forewing. Nematopogon swammerdamella is larger (8 to 10mm forewing) with a narrower forewing.

Forewing: 6 to 8mm

Habitats: Woodland rides, mature hedgerows, fens and marshes.

Habits: The moth flies in sunshine and again around sunset. It comes to light.

Foodplant: The larva is associated with Alder. In its final instars in the spring it feeds on the ground on both dead and living leaves from a flat case made of leaf fragments. It pupates in its case.