Acyphas chionitis
Common NameAcyphas chionitis
Scientific NameAcyphas chionitis
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyLymantriinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorswhite, orange, brown, grey
HabitatWoodlands, forests, shrublands, urban gardens
Geographic RangeAustralia
Host PlantsEucalyptus, Acacia, Casuarina, Lophostemon
Flight PeriodSpring to autumn
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy, often referred to as tussock caterpillars, and feed on various native Australian trees and shrubs before pupating in a cocoon.
Identification TipsKey features include the pure white forewings, the very hairy white body with an orange-brown thoracic patch, and its distribution exclusively in Australia.
Description
This is a small to medium-sized moth characterized by its pure white, fluffy forewings and a densely hairy white body, often with a distinct orange-brown patch on the thorax. Its hindwings are typically a darker grey.
