Agonopterix cnicella is a moth of the Depressariidae family. It is found in most of Europe, except Ireland, Fennoscandia, Portugal, the central part of the Balkan Peninsula, Latvia and Estonia. It has also been recorded from Morocco and Asia Minor. The wingspan is 18–22 mm. Adults are on wing from June to July. The larvae feed on Eryngium species, including Eryngium maritimum and Eryngium campestre. They feed amongst spun leaves and shoots, often causing brown discolouration. Several larvae may be found together on the host plant. Larvae can be found from May to the beginning of June.