Athetis maculatra
Common NameAthetis maculatra
Scientific NameAthetis maculatra
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyCondicinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Primary Colorstan, brown, black
HabitatGrasslands, open woodlands, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeAustralia (Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia, Tasmania)
Host Plantsvarious herbaceous plants, grasses
Flight PeriodMultiple broods, year-round in warmer regions, spring to autumn elsewhere
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are typically ground-dwelling or feed on low-growing herbaceous vegetation before pupating.
Identification TipsKey features include the speckled pale forewings, the contrasting dark head and thorax, and its relatively small size. Examination of subtle wing markings may be necessary for definitive identification.
Description
A small moth with pale tan to light brown forewings heavily speckled with darker brown or blackish scales, often with indistinct reniform and orbicular spots. The head and thorax are typically dark brown to blackish, contrasting with the lighter wings.
