One of the few Lepidoptera species thought to have predatory larvae.
Family
Batrachedridae
Biostatus
Endemic
Host Plant
Variety of trees and shrubs, including beech and manuka
Larva
Lives in sooty mould on beech tree trunks and manuka. Uncertain if larvae feed directly on mould, or prey on scale insects that create growth substrate for mould.
Pupa
Pupates in cocoons in feeding place.
Adult/Imago
Frog-like resting posture (raised front of body sloping back to hindlegs). October to February.
Forewing Length
6 - 9mm
Range
NZ
Habitat
Native forest.