Diamond-back Moth

Adult moths display grey-brown wing colouration. There's also a cream coloured, diamond-shaped band that runs vertically down the back. The wings are narrow, spanning 1.5cm in total when in flight. The length of the body is around 6mm. The antennae are considerably long (about the same as the body). Larvae are tiny green caterpillars with black dots. They begin feeding within the leaves, mining the internal tissues. Usually, they're too small at this point so go unnoticed. After the first moult, they emerge, where they move to graze beneath the leaf.

Notches, holes and bites, missing from plant foliage. Translucent windows, or 'shot holes' in the leaves of plants. Small, green, caterpillars beneath the leaves. Faint, pale green/brown mines may be seen beneath leaves. Small brown pupae may be seen beneath leaves. If infestations are heavy, sometimes whole leaves can be lost.

Nocturnal

These moths have initially been controlled using conventional pesticides. However, overuse of these resulted in a tolerance to build in populations. Research has found that these moths are attracted to a variety of plants. Yet, not all are suitable for their larvae. It's now advised to plant wintercress around desirable crops. The moths are attracted enough to lay their eggs, yet upon hatching the larvae can't persist.