Epiblema cirsiana (Zeller, 1843) Species
Last modified: July 23, 2025, 1:41 p.m.
A very rare species in Belgium.
Details
- Classification
- Family: Tortricidae > Subfamily: Olethreutinae > Tribus: Eucosmini > Genus: Epiblema > Species: Epiblema cirsiana
- Vernacular names
- Knoopkruidzadelmot (NL), Knapweed Bell (EN), L'Epliblémie du Cirse des marais (FR), Südlicher Distelwickler (DE)
- Status
-
Native
Distribution
Imago
Wingspan 12–23 mm. This species should be checked for genitalia for proper ID.
Very similar to Epiblema scutulana and Epiblema sticticana. Distinguished from male Epiblema scutulana by the absence of a large white apico-tornal patch and by the dark fuscous hindwing.
Museum specimens
Specimens in nature
Genitalia
Bionomics
The larva bores in the stem where it pupates. The adults come to light.
Flight periods
The adults have been seen from late April towards late August.
Observed on
- Host plant (species):
- Centaurea nigra and Cirsium palustre
- Host plant (genera):
- Centaurea, Arctium and Carduus
The larva lives mainly on Centaurea; other plants mentioned in literature are Cirsium palustre, Carduus, and Arctium.
Habitat
It is generally assumed that this species is more associated with damp and shady places such as meadows, marshes, and moist and shady woodland and clearings.
