Scythris subcinctella (Bruand, 1851) Species
Last modified: Feb. 24, 2023, 3:32 p.m.
First Belgian record in NA in 2017. A very rare and local species in the southern part of Belgium.
Details
- Classification
- Family: Scythrididae > Genus: Scythris > Species: Scythris subcinctella
- Vernacular names
- Zonneroosjesdikkopmot (NL), Copper Owlet (EN)
- Synonyms
- Scythris crassiuscula (Herrich-Schäffer, 1855)
- First mention in Belgium
- Steeman C. & Sierens T. 2018. Interessante waarnemingen van Lepidoptera in België in 2017 (Lepidoptera). — Phegea 46(2): 31–47. On page 44. view page
- Status
-
Native
Distribution
Imago
Wingspan: 10 mm. This species must be identified by checking the genitalia.
Museum specimens
No pictures yet!Specimens in nature
Genitalia
Caterpillar
Bionomics
The larva spins a loose web over the lower leaves of the foodplant, extending over several shoots. Under this web it spins a silken tube which extends downwards into moss and debris beneath the plant. The larva retreats into this tube when it is disturbed. It consumes the upper surface of the leaves, turning the leaves white. Larve can be found in April–June.
Pupation in a silken cocoon on the ground in the vicinity of the foodplant.
Especially males are active during daytime in sunshine. Females, which are slightly brachypterous, are not often flying.
Flight periods
One generation a year: June–July.
Observed on
- Host plant (species):
- Helianthemum nummularium
- Host plant (genera):
- Helianthemum
Monophagous, though probably living on other species of Helianthemum.
Habitat
Mainly on xerothermic chalk or limestone downland.
