Citrus Leaf Minor

Citrus leaf minor is a pest that attacks all varieties of citrus, including some Australian native species. The adult is a tiny, night flying moth with a wingspan of only five millimetres. But it’s not the moth that actually does the damage, it’s their larvae. Eggs are laid on new leaves where they hatch and tunnel or mine their way through the leaves leaving a squiggly, silver trail in their path. Squiggly lines on the leaves are the first sign and the leaves then become distorted, which inhibits their photosynthesising ability. This won’t kill trees, but they will be stunted and unhealthy, reducing yield. When fully grown, the larvae will curl the leaf around for protection while they pupate.