Common Splendid Ghost Moth
Common NameCommon Splendid Ghost Moth
Scientific NameAenetus splendidus
FamilyHepialidae
SubfamilyHepialinae
Wingspan (mm)55
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsgreen, white
HabitatRainforests, wet sclerophyll forests
Geographic RangeEastern Australia (Queensland, New South Wales)
Host PlantsEucalyptus, Acacia, Casuarina, Lophostemon, Melaleuca, Syncarpia
Flight PeriodDecember to March
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesFemales scatter eggs in flight. Larvae are wood-borers, feeding within the roots and lower stems of host trees for up to two years before pupating in their tunnels. Adults are short-lived and do not feed.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its bright green coloration with prominent white diagonal stripes on the forewings, robust furry body, and its characteristic resting posture with wings held tent-like over the body.
Description
A vibrant green moth with striking white diagonal stripes across its forewings, a robust, furry body, and dark eyes. It typically rests with its wings held in a tent-like fashion.
