Phytomyza tussilaginis

The larva of the fly Phytomyza tussilaginis mines the leaves of Butterbur, Colt’s-foot and Winter Heliotrope, producing a long narrow mine, widening at the end and often forming a secondary blotch.

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

ref.: Warrington, B.P. (2023).  Phytomyza tussilaginis. 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 and state the host plant.

Host plants: Butterbur, Colt’s-foot and Winter Heliotrope

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 may be found from May to December.

Widespread, but sometimes local in Britain.

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

Occasional and local in Leicestershire and Rutland.