Monochroa palustrellus
Monochroa palustrellus
Adult • Denham, Suffolk • © Nigel Whinney

35.073 BF737

Monochroa palustrellus

(Douglas, 1850)


Wingspan 15-19 mm.

Occupying dry sandy areas and distributed locally in the south-east of England, this is a fairly distinctive Gelechiid moth. It can be recognised by the noticeable dark and pale streaking and the pale-ringed dark spot on the forewing at two-thirds.

The larva feeds on dock (Rumex), particularly curled dock (R. crispus), feeding internally on the roots and stems.

The moths fly between June and August and are attracted to light.