Phytomyza leucanthemi

The larvae of the fly Phytomyza leucanthemi mine the leaves of Chrysanthemum and Leucanthemum (Oxeye Daisy group) creating an irregular, linear mine with frass in widely spaced grains. Mostly found on the lower basal leaves.

See the National Agromyzidae Recording Scheme webpage for this species for further details of puparium and adult insect.

The leafmines of Chromatomyia horticola, Chromatomyia syngenesiae and Phytomyza paraciliata may be very similar to those of Phytomyza leucanthemi so great care is needed with identification.

ref.: Warrington, B.P. (2023).  Phytomyza leucanthemi. Accessed at https://agromyzidae.co.uk/species/agromyzidae/phytomyzinae/phytomyza/ph… on 13/12/2023)

Leafmine   Adult

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 a back-lit image of the leafmine showing the frass and also add a note of the host plant.

Where the host plant species occur.

Click on the 'further details' link in the 'Description' section above.  Then click on the Phenology tab which will provide phenology details for both adult and larval stages.

Leafmines of this species may be found in most months of the year.

Pupation takes place outside of the mine.

In Britain this species is classed as Nationally Scarce B.  

Warrington, B. P. 2022. A provisional review of the status of Agromyzidae in Great Britain & Northern Ireland

Rarely recorded in Leicestershire and Rutland.