Infurcitinea argentimaculella

Wingspan 8 to 9 mm. 

Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters.

Around lichen covered shady rocks, walls or tree trunks.

The adults fly in July and early August in sunshine.

The larvae of this species feeds on various lichens (Lepraria spp. and perhaps others) on shady rocks, walls or tree trunks, constructing long lichen covered silken tubes. Tubes containing larva may be seen on the surface of the lichen from March to June. Pupation occurs within the tube.

This species has been recorded as far north as Cumbria but is commonest in the south of England. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as local.

Rarely recorded in Leicestershire and Rutland.