Coleophoridae

37.070 Jointed Rush Case-bearer Coleophora tamesis Waters, 1929

Local

Similar species:

Forewing: 5 to 6.5mm

Habitats: Damp woodland rides, damp pasture, marshes, fens, mosses and bogs.

Habits: The moth flies in evening sunshine and occasionally comes to light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds on the seeds of Jointed Rush. It initially feeds internally and then later from a dark silk case, the rear of which protrudes from the seed-capsule that encloses the forward part of the case. It enlarges the case as it grows by making a longitudinal slit along the lower side and adding in some silk. The final trivalved case is 6 to 7mm long, m.o. at a 15° to 20° angle. The larva is full-fed by September. It overwinters away from the feeding place where it pupates in the following May.