About Caloptilia populetorum (Zeller, 1839)
Caloptilia populetorum (Zeller, 1839), commonly known as the clouded slender, is a moth species belonging to the family Gracillariidae. This species is found across most of Europe, with the exception of Italy, the Balkan Peninsula, and the Mediterranean islands. The wingspan of adults ranges from 11 to 14 millimetres (0.43 to 0.55 inches). The forewings are whitish ochreous, irregularly tinged and clouded with fuscous; their margins are dotted with black. There is a small black spot on the middle of the costa, and blackish dots on the fold at 1/3 and 2/3 of the wing length. The hindwings are dark grey. The larva is green-whitish, with a very pale brownish head. Adults begin flying in August, then overwinter, and may be seen again until April or May. Although the scientific name populetorum suggests larvae feed on poplar, they actually only feed on the leaves of Betula species, including Betula pendula and Betula pubescens. Initially, larvae feed inside a leaf gallery, and later they roll a leaf and feed within the rolled structure.
