73.236 BF2253

Black-banded Polymixis xanthomista

(Hübner, [1819])

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Wingspan 38-44 mm.

A very local species in Britain, restricted to the coasts of Devon and Cornwall, south-west Wales and the Isle of Man. In recent years it has also been found in North Anglesey.

Its habitat requirements are rocky and stony areas by the sea, where it flies in August and September and can be attracted to light.

The larvae feed on low plants, especially thrift (Armeria maritima), and seem to prefer the flowers. Never found far from the sea, the location of the foodplant is such that it is splashed by the high tide.