Metzneria lappella (Linnaeus, 1758)
burdock seedhead neb
on burdick
Arctium minus, Biddinghuizen, Spijkbos, 20.iv.2020 © Arnold Grosscurt
twolae, at right an opened cocoon.
parasite
The bone coloured, virtually legless larvae in n an outwards unmodified flower head, feeding on the developing fruit; up o six larvae in a head, each one in a cocoon strengthened with silk and frass. Occupied heads feel hard to the touch. The larva hibernates in the flower head, in a cocoon made of the fruits spun together.
host plants
Asteraceae, monophagous
Arctium lappa, minus, tomentosum.
distribution within Europe
references
Bland, Corley, Emmet ao (2002a), Buhr (1964a), Corley, Rosete, Marabuto ao (2014a), Deutsch (2012a), Kaitila 1996a), Lepiforum, De Prins & Steeman (2011a), Purrington (1970a), Requena (2009a), Szőcs (1977a), Thomann (1956a).