A highly unusual little moth which feeds on scale insects.
Family
Copromorphidae
Biostatus
Endemic
Host Plant
Variety of trees, including rimu and beech.
Larva
Lives under flaky tree bark (e.g. rimu and beech). Feeds on scale insects, e.g. sooty beech scale (Ultracoelostoma assimile).
Pupa
Pupates in tough cocoon under bark.
Adult/Imago
Flies by day in sunshine, rests on tree trunks, attracted to light at night. Hard to see when in flight. September to February.
Forewing Length
5 - 8mm
Range
North Island and northern South Island.
Habitat
Native forest.