Yponomeutidae

16.023 Ringed Needle-miner Ocnerostoma piniariella Zeller, 1847

Notable B

Similar species: Although Ocnerostoma friesei has grey antennae rather than white ringed antennae it is best to check the genitalia to get a reliable identification.

Forewing: 3.5 to 5mm

Habitats: Coniferous woodland and heathland.

Habits: The moth can be disturbed in the day.

Foodplant: The larva mines a needle of Scot's Pine from tip to base, filling the end with excrement. It then makes a hole away from the tip and ejects its excrement through it. This leaves the lower part of the mine containing the larva mostly empty and looking pale. It pupates in a slender cocoon spun between three or four needles.