The larva of the fly Phytomyza plantaginis mines the leaves of various Plantain species including Ribwort Plantain producing a long, linear, whitish narrow mine; normally in the leaf, but sometimes in the stem. The pupa is formed at the end of the mine and in the lower surface of the leaf.

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

When the mine(s) radiate from the petiole into the leaf blade, these cannot be separated from the mines Phytomyza griffithsi.

ref.: Warrington, B.P. (2023).  Phytomyza plantaginis. 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 to show the frass. Please also add a note of the host plant.

Host plants: Plantains, particularly Ribwort Plantain

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 between May and October.

Widespread, but sometimes rather local in Britain.

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

Infrequently recorded in Leicestershire and Rutland.