Geometridae

70.104 Devon Carpet Lampropteryx otregiata (Metcalfe, 1917)

Notable B

Similar species: Small Phoenix Ecliptopera silaceata is slightly larger (13 to 17mm), lacks the projection on the outer edge of the cross-band, and has a pale streak in the apex of the forewing which winds back to the middle of the outer edge of the wing (rather than continuing until the cross-lines). Water Carpet Lampropteryx suffumata is on average larger (14 to 17mm) and has a more ragged outer edge to the cross-band between the leading edge and the projection.

Forewing: 12 to 14mm

Habitats: Damp woodland.

Habits: The moth is occasionally disturbed in the day. It flies from sunset and comes to light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds on Marsh Bedstraw, Heath Bedstraw and probably Fen Bedstraw. The larva pupates in the leaf litter.