Morley’s Final Catalogue: Quite an uncommon kind, on Stellaria. The 1890 localities (Swefling, Leiston, Southwold, Lowestoft) may refer to the next
Recent Status: A common species with relatively few records for Suffolk, probably due to identification constraints.
Life Style: The moth is single brooded flying from May to August. A second generation is possible following on from larvae produced by early flying moths. The larvae feed on the seeds of Stellaria graminea, S. media and Cerastium fontanum. They hibernate fully fed and pupate in the year following oviposition.
Identification: The moth is a pale boldly striped species that can be identified by genitalia dissection. More Info The larvae initially feed inside a seed capsule before creating a silken case. The case includes chewed pieces of seed capsule dorsally. It is extended at the anal end and ventrally. The anal end is strongly trivalved and the oral opening set at 30 degrees to the long axis when mature. More Info | Determination by Genitalia Examination (gen. det.) Required | |
| Case: A good quality photo or specimen of the case and plant/pabulum is required. | |
Recorded in 17 (29%) of 58 10k Squares. First Recorded in 1892. Last Recorded in 2023. |