It is found in the Ireland, Netherlands, Belgium, France, Germany, Poland, Austria, Hungary, Croatia, Italy and Greece.

A relatively reliable distinguishing feature is the comparatively small discocellular spot on the hind wing.

In females, the laying tube is relatively short and strong and has slightly dilated apophyses basally.

[3] The similar species Elophila nymphaea is on average slightly larger than E. rivulalis.

Content in this edit is translated from the existing German Wikipedia article at de:Elophila rivulalis; see its history for attribution.