Defra

This moth can cause damage to a wide range of ornamental and vegetable plants and has been found in the UK on Heuchera and Sambucus and on aquatic plants including Ludwigia glandilosa and L. perennis. The larvae feed on leaves and flowers and bore into stems. Indications of presence of the pest are leaves spun together, frass and holes in leaves and stems. Growers, in particular of protected plants, should be aware of this pest.

Adult Duponchelia fovealis moth, dorsal view. In life, the end of the abdomen curves upwards.

Larva of Duponchelia fovealis, dorsal view. Note the black head and shield like spots all along the body.

Extensive feeding damage caused by the larva of Duponchelia fovealis.

 

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Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs

CENTRAL SCIENCE LABORATORY