For those interested in the British leaf mining fauna. This discussion group is open to all those interested in leaf miners.

The photos show the mine made by Eriocrania salopiella (Lep: Eriocraniidae)

This is a late spring miner of Birch (Betula spp.) and forms characteristic blotch mines starting in the middle of a leaf (see top photo). As the mine develops it fills the leaf (see bottom photo). If you look closely you can see where the initial mine was, as it is a different colour to the later mine.

This miner is very much under recorded in the UK.

These mines continue being formed into June. Later in June you may also find similar looking mines of E.sparrmanella, again under recorded. The larvae of this species have different head structures to salopiella.

More details can be found:
www.leafmines.co.uk
www.bladmineerders.nl/

Photo: copyright Rob Edmunds