4.02 BF82

Stigmella paradoxa

(Frey, 1858)

Wingspan 5-6mm.

A nationally scarce and local species throughout Britain although possibly overlooked.

Adults fly at the end of April and May and mines can be found during June and July.

The larvae form a blotch mine near the tip of a lobe of Crataegus Hawthorn with the egg laid on the underside near the tip. The frass is placed centrally.

The adult can only be identified by rearing or dissection.

(Species account by Phil Barden).