Jumping Weevil - Orchestes testaceus

The adult is 2.7 to 3.6 mm. The larva of Orchestes testaceus mines the leaves of Alder species. Initially a gallery is formed which runs towards the leaf edge from a vein or midrib. The gallery widens quickly and then becomes a blotch - a spherical cocoon develops in this. The mine is brown.

Adult Leafmine

Adult: 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.  

Leafmine: Please provide close up photograph showing the mine back-lit and including the gallery if visible.  State the host species and include a picture of the cocoon if present.

On Alder.

Early summer.

Uncommon in Britain and a UKBAP species.

Rare in Leicestershire and Rutland.  The Broughton Astley record of 3rd June 2022 is believed to be the first for VC55.