Erebidae

72.014 Reed Tussock Laelia coenosa (Hübner, [1808])

Extinct

Similar species: White Satin Leucoma salicis is on average larger (18 to 27mm) and white with occasional buff leading edge, rather than pale buff forewing with lighter highlights.

Forewing: 16 to 21mm

Habitats: Fenland.

Habits: The moth comes to light. The native population was last recorded in 1879.

Foodplant: On the European mainland the larva feeds on Common Reed, Branched Bur-reed, Great Fen-sedge and fescues. It overwinters part-grown in foliage adjacent to the foodplant. It pupates in a tough brown cocoon on the foodplant or adjacent stems.