Geometridae

70.098 Dark Marbled Carpet Dysstroma citrata citrata (Linnaeus, 1761)

Common

Dysstroma citrata pythonissata (Millière, 1872)

Common Shetland and Orkney

Similar species: Common Marbled Carpet Dysstroma truncata has a more rounded curve to the area inside the main cross-band, a projection on the outer side of the cross-band that runs almost straight from the leading edge of the wing and only slightly interrupts the zig-zag outer cross-line and a central line on the underside of the hindwing that is more rounded (rather than pointed).

Forewing: 14 to 19mm

Habitats: Deciduous woodland, scrub, hedgerows, highland glens, moorland, heathland and gardens.

Habits: The moth is easily disturbed from tree trunks and rocks during the day. It also comes to light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds on Bilberry, birches, Heather, sallows, Wild Strawberry and other species. It pupates in the leaf litter.

On the European mainland it has also been recorded feeding on Alder, Bog Bilberry, Meadowsweet and Sea Aster.