Tilia-specialist
Guides
Chrysoclista linneella
Linnaeus's spangle-wing, linden bark borer, cosmet
Chrysoclista linneella is a small moth with a wingspan of 10–13 mm, recognized by its distinctive orange forewings with three silvery spots and blackish-brown margins. The species is closely associated with linden trees (Tilia), where larvae tunnel beneath bark. Adults are active from May to September and are frequently encountered in urban areas with linden avenues, though rarely observed in natural habitats.
Eucallipterus tiliae
Linden aphid, Lime-tree aphid, Lime Leaf Aphid
Eucallipterus tiliae is a specialist aphid species feeding exclusively on Tilia (lime/linden) trees. Adults are readily identified by a black stripe along the body and cloudy-black wing edges. The species exhibits pronounced seasonal polyphenism in nymphal pigmentation, with first-generation nymphs always unpigmented and later generations developing black dorsal bands in response to crowding and leaf maturity. Flight behavior is density-dependent, with both direct crowding and plant-mediated cues stimulating dispersal. Native to Eurasia, it has established worldwide wherever host Tilia species occur.
Phyllonorycter tiliacella
Basswood Round-blotch Miner Moth
Phyllonorycter tiliacella is a small leaf-mining moth in the family Gracillariidae. The larvae create distinctive tentiform mines on the upper surfaces of basswood (Tilia) leaves, appearing white with dense dark brown speckling. The species has a bivoltine life cycle with different pupal strategies for summer and winter broods.