Platyptilia pulverulenta
| Platyptilia pulverulenta | |
|---|---|
Scientific classification 
| |
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Arthropoda |
| Class: | Insecta |
| Order: | Lepidoptera |
| Family: | Pterophoridae |
| Genus: | Platyptilia |
| Species: | P. pulverulenta
|
| Binomial name | |
| Platyptilia pulverulenta | |
Platyptilia pulverulenta is a moth of the family Pterophoridae. It is found in New Zealand.
The wingspan is about 23 mm. The head is whitish, and the antennae are reddish brown mixed with whitish. The thorax is reddish brown densely mixed with white, and the abdomen is greyish brown. The forewings are reddish brown, sprinkled with white. The hindwings are pale reddish brown.[2]
Description
[edit]The plume moth Platyptilia pulverulenta displays characteristic plume moth features, including thin bodies and deeply divided wings which create an identifiable "T" shape when at rest. [3]The forewings typically have brown and gray in color, and they frequently have speckling or flecks which assists them blend in with the environment. The identical lobed patterning on the hindwings contributes to the moth's exquisite and intricate appearance.[4]
Distribution and habitat
[edit]While Platyptilia pulverulenta's specific range is unresolved it is believed to live in regions where its larval host plants are available. In general, plume moths reside in a variety of environments, from meadows and grasslands to woodlands, dependent on the existence of sufficient nourishment for their larvae.
Ecology
[edit]Platyptilia pulverulenta shows behaviours that are similar to those of the Pterophoridae family. Primarily nocturnal in this moth is frequently drawn to man-made light sources during night.[5]Its slow, fluttering flight permits it to blend into the surroundings. While there isn't a great deal known about the larvae's favorite hosts, it is likely to be that they feed on particular plants.[6]
References
[edit]- ^ Lepidoptera of New Zealand
- ^ Transactions and Proceedings of the Royal Society of New Zealand 1868-1961
This article incorporates text from this source, which is in the public domain.
- ^ "Platyptilia pulverulenta". iNaturalist NZ. Retrieved 2024-08-16.
- ^ "Platyptilia pulverulenta". iNaturalist NZ. Retrieved 2024-08-16.
- ^ "Checklist: Order of LEPIDOPTERA in BC". www.zoology.ubc.ca. Retrieved 2024-08-16.
- ^ paperspast.natlib.govt.nz https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/periodicals/TPRSNZ1928-59.2.6.7. Retrieved 2024-08-16.
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