Spulerina simploniella

The oak bark leafminer ( Spulerina simploniella ) is a species of the family of leaf miners ( Gracillariidae ). These are small moths that are found mainly in the months of June to July.

Way of life

The very flat built caterpillars live as leaf miners in the bark of young oak, the chest and abdomen legs are modified into small Kriechwülsten. The segments have also both on the abdomen and on the back side rough Kriechplatten. Hibernation takes place as a caterpillar, pupation in the mine chamber under a Seidengespinnst. When drying the bark burst open and this is the way for the butterfly free.

Pest

In larger number of the oak bark leaf miners can cause a not inconsiderable damage in oak plantings.