Tortricidae

49.266 Common Knapweed Tortrix Eucosma hohenwartiana ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775)

Common

Similar species: Eucosma parvulana looks similar, but is on average smaller. For positive identification check the genitalia. Eucosma fulvana is paler, but on average larger. For positive identification it may be necessary to check the genitalia. Eucosma cana has longitudinal streaks along the trailing edge (the pale dorsal area) of the forewings.

Forewing: 7 to 9.5mm

Habitats: Rough grassland and meadows, calcareous grassland, embankments, marshes and woodland rides.

Habits: The moth flies at dusk and later comes to light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds in a flower-head or seed-head of Common Knapweed and possibly Greater Knapweed or Saw-wort, feeding on the unripe seeds and pith in the flower-head. In September the full-fed larva constructs a cocoon in the leaf litter, where it overwinters until it pupates in May.