Common Rustic agg. - Mesapamea secalis agg.

Formerly a single species, this has now been split giving Lesser Common Rustic specific status. Generally very variable, the pair cannot be reliably separated without dissection. If selecting individuals for dissection, the very dark forms with almost white stigmata are likely to be Lesser Common Rustic, however browner/variegated forms may be either species.

Various habitats especially grassy areas.

July and August. Regularly come to light.

The larvae feed inside the stems of various grasses, including Cock's-foot and Tall Fescue.

The species is very common throughout Britain and regularly comes to light.

Common Rustic agg. is common in VC55, and dissection shows both species to be widely present.