Gracilia minuta

Range & Status

Formerly very widespread throughout England, but has become increasingly very scarce.

Regional Distribution

Recorded from St. Merryn in 1925 (Blair, 1931) and Penzance in 1932 by R.T. Bannister.

Habitat & Ecology

Larvae develop in twigs and smaller branches of a variety of broadleaved trees and shrubs, including Dog Rose Rosa canina agg. and Bramble Rubus fruticosus agg. Formerly a pest of wickerwork. Reported in woodland and scrub.

Threats

Changing woodland structure, through plantation forestry and abandonment of old coppices.

Conservation

Maintenance of open sunny areas within and around woodlands where a variety of native trees and shrubs may develop.