Last modified: Dec. 3, 2024, 3:24 p.m.
A common species throughout Belgium. The most common species of this family.
Native
Wingspan 18–27 mm.
The genus Emmelina has the characteristic that the medial of the proximal pair of spurs on the hind legs is twice as long as the lateral spur.
In Belgium represented by only one species Emmelina monodactyla, although there is a second species Emmelina argoteles occurring not so far from our borders in Germany and France. It's only a matter of time before it is found in Belgium, although it should be checked for genitals.
The larva lives preferably on the young shoots of its food plant. Pupation away from the food plant, often on a fence.
The species hibernate in the adult stage.
Adults are active at dusk and come to light. They can easily be disturbed from the foliage during the daytime.
One or two generations a year from September till April. Specimens have been observed in all months of the year. It is not known whether there is one generation per year or perhaps a second generation occurs in summertime.
The main hostplant is Calystegia sepium, but the larvae have been observed on other herbaceous plants as well.