Firethorn Leaf Miner vs Swamp Metalmark
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Firethorn Leaf Miner | Swamp Metalmark |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Phyllonorycter leucographella | Calephelis mutica |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Gracillariidae | Riodinidae |
| Size | 7-8 mm wingspan | 22-28 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Underground | Wetlands |
| Diet | Herbivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | Southern Europe, spreading north | Upper Midwest United States, Great Lakes region |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Near Threatened; extremely local |
Firethorn Leaf Miner
A tiny moth whose larvae create blister mines on pyracantha leaves. Originally from southern Europe, it has spread rapidly northward. Mines cause silvery blotches on leaves.
Did You Know?
First recorded in Britain in 1989 and spread across the country within a decade on planted pyracantha hedges.
Swamp Metalmark
A rare and localized metalmark butterfly of midwestern wetlands with warm rusty-brown wings marked with fine metallic lines. It has very specific habitat requirements.
Did You Know?
Some populations consist of fewer than 50 individuals, making it one of North America's most vulnerable butterflies.