Monochroa tetragonella

Checklist Number
35.068 [B&F: 0738]

Verification
Record requires retention of specimen until confirmed, and may require dissection. Consult with CMR if unsure

Classification

Family:Gelechiidae
Subfamily:Anomologinae
Genus:Monochroa
Species:tetragonella
Authority:(Stainton, 1885)

Endangered (proposed as a future Red Data Book species) in saltmarshes in widely separated localities in Dorset, Essex, Norfolk, Lincolnshire, Co. Durham and Glamorgan (MBGBI Vol 4 part 2). Not recorded in Hampshire or on the Isle of Wight to date. Wingspan 9-11 mm. One of several similar, rather nondescript gelechiids, which can only be reliably identified by dissection of the genitalia. Larva feeds within stems and leaves of Sea-milkwort.