Larvae will be found on tree ferns, including wheki, katotoe and silver fern.
Family
Geometridae
Biostatus
Endemic
Host Plant
Tree ferns (e.g. wheki, katote, silver fern)
Larva
Specialised setae pair on abdomen triggers defensive response when touched (drops from host vigorously twisting to hide in leaf litter).
Pupa
Pupates in silk cocoon among host fronds or in detritus.
Adult/Imago
Variable wing pattern. Males have simple antennae. September to April. Fly at night, visiting flowers, attracted to light.
Forewing Length
16 - 20mm
Range
NZ
Habitat
Native forest.