Citrus leafminer

Definition

A minute moth (Phyllocnistis citrella, Gracillariidae) whose larva excavates serpentine mines in the epidermis of young citrus leaves, leaving distinctive silvery trails and curled, distorted foliage; a major quarantine and management concern in citrus production worldwide.

Etymology

From the larval habit of mining within the leaf tissue of Citrus species.

Example

In Florida citrus groves, citrus leafminer damage to flush growth can predispose trees to citrus canker infection, prompting integrated pest management programs combining pheromone mating disruption and selective insect growth regulators.

Synonyms

• CLM (agricultural abbreviation)
• Phyllocnistis citrella

Related Terms

• leafminer
• serpentine mine
• Gracillariidae
• citrus canker
• flush growth
• Integrated Pest Management

Usage Notes

Strictly refers to Phyllocnistis citrella, not other citrus-feeding gracillariids; the abbreviation CLM is standard in agricultural extension literature but ambiguous without context. Distinguish from citrus peelminer (Marmara spp.) and other unrelated leaf-mining pests. The species is internationally regulated; detections in new regions trigger quarantine protocols.