12.006 BF203

Infurcitinea argentimaculella

(Stainton, 1849)

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Wingspan 8-9 mm.

The larvae of this species feeds on various lichens (Lepraria spp. and perhaps others) on shady rocks, walls or tree trunks, constructing long lichen covered silken tubes. Tubes containing larva may be seen on the surface of the lichen from April to June. Pupation occurs within the tube.

The adults fly in July and early August in sunshine. This species has been recorded as far north as Cumbria but is commonest in the south of England.