Status
Morley’s Final Catalogue: Rather local. Felixstow in July of both 1901-2 (Gibbs); a few at Aldeburgh in 1892 (Ctw); Kessingland (Bd); at Monks Soham light, early Sept. 1936 (Mly). Brandon (Barrett).
Recent Status: There are a number of records for this species, primarily along the coast. The validity of some of these may be suspect. Genitalia dissection is required for identification of this species that is rare in Britain.
Life Style: The adult flies in mid-summer and will come to light. The larvae feed from winter through spring on species of lichen.
Identification: The Scopariinae (Scoparia and Eudonia) can be difficult to identify. Some species are easier than others. Before considering wing markings it is important to note the size, the shape when at rest and the forewing shape. All forewing markings can be important but of particular importance are the white sub-terminal markings, the post median line and the stigmata. They possess orbicular, claviform and reniform stigmata. Worn individuals might not be identified except by genitalia dissection.
Eudonia lineola is most similar to E. angustea which is a common species in Suffolk, especially on the coast. The forewings are less narrow and the apex less acute. The costal side of the reniform stigma is white not brown. The sub-terminal line deviates from the termen centrally to touch the post median line. The termen has black dashes not dots but particularly at the dorsal end there is a prominent black dash between this line and the post median line. Genitalia dissection is required to confirm a record of E. lineola in Suffolk. https://mothdissection.co.uk/species.php?ABH=63.071  | Determination by Genitalia Examination Required | |
Recorded in 4 (7%) of 58 10k Squares.
First Recorded in 1892.
Last Recorded in 2019. |