Amblyptilia repletalis
Common NameAmblyptilia repletalis
Scientific NameAmblyptilia repletalis
FamilyPterophoridae
SubfamilyPterophorinae
Wingspan (mm)21.5
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, white
HabitatOpen woodlands, meadows, gardens, and areas with herbaceous host plants.
Geographic RangeNew Zealand
Host PlantsGnaphalium, Helichrysum
Flight PeriodYear-round
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae are typically internal feeders, boring into stems, flowers, or leaves of their herbaceous host plants before pupating.
Identification TipsKey features for identification include the characteristic T-shaped resting posture with wings held horizontally, the deeply divided 'plume-like' forewings and hindwings, and the mottled brown and grey coloration. Distinguishing from other plume moths often requires examination of genitalic features.
Description
A small, slender plume moth characterized by its deeply cleft, feathery wings held out at right angles to the body in a distinctive T-shape when at rest. Its wings are mottled with shades of brown, grey, and white, providing camouflage.
