One of the most beautiful lichen mimics among NZ Lepidoptera. The raised scale-tufts on the forewings enhance the cryptic effect.
Family
Carposinidae
Biostatus
Endemic
Host Plant
Various plants including wineberry.
Larva
Feeds on callus tissue around plant wounds or galls caused by other insects (eg. tunnels made by Puriri Moth larvae in wineberry).
Pupa
Pupates in feeding place.
Adult/Imago
Lichen mimic (raised scale-tufts on forewings resemble lichen). Variable colouration. Most have pale to dark green background colour on forewings.
Forewing Length
10 - 17.5mm
Range
North Island and northern South Island.
Habitat
Native forest.
