62.0071 BF1434

Cryptoblabes gnidiella

(Millière, 1867)

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Wingspan c. 11-20 mm.

This Mediterranean species is not a native to the British Isles, but has occurred on a number of occasions as an adventive, generally as larvae found feeding on pomegranate and various citrus fruits.

The species was first recorded in 1936, but since then there have been a number of records, some being taken at light, but it is not believed that these are true migrants.

Abroad, the larva has been found feeding on a range of other foodplants, including apple (Malus) and maize (Zea mays).

Its propensity for attacking fruit has afforded the species pest status in some parts of the world, where it is known also as the Honeydew Moth and Christmas Berry Moth.