Elhamma australasiae
Common NameElhamma australasiae
Scientific NameElhamma australasiae
FamilyHepialidae
SubfamilyHepialinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsdark brown, grey, mottled
HabitatForests, woodlands, open forests
Geographic RangeEastern Australia (Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania)
Host Plantsroots of native grasses, roots of native shrubs
Flight PeriodOctober to April
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are subterranean root feeders on various native plants. Pupation occurs underground, and adults are typically short-lived, emerging primarily for reproduction.
Identification TipsLook for its robust, hairy body and cryptic mottled brown forewings, often with a faint pale diagonal streak. Its resting posture with wings held roof-like over the body is typical of Hepialidae.
Description
A robust, medium-sized moth with mottled dark brown and grey forewings, often featuring subtle streaks and a faint pale diagonal band. Its body is stout and hairy, characteristic of swift moths.
