1762 Chloroclysta citrata (Dark Marbled Carpet)

Geometridae, Larentiinae - Wingspan: 28-38mm.

Supposedly a common species throughout the UK, it is only rarely recorded in Cornwall. Records imply that it is more likely to be seen to the west of the county. The beautiful specimen here shows the main difference from the 1764 Common Marbled Carpet because the outer edge of the central bar has three protruding lobes which extend together considerably from the main bar, whilst the latter species' are almost in line with it.. However the markings are quite variable in both species so sometimes it is not so easy to see, particularly when faded.

The flight season of usually isolated individuals is from May to October, with a very small peak occurring in June and August, which may indicate two generations.