Helastia semisignata
Common NameHelastia semisignata
Scientific NameHelastia semisignata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)28
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, white
HabitatNative forests, shrublands, subalpine areas
Geographic RangeNew Zealand (North and South Islands)
Host PlantsCoprosma, Hebe, Nothofagus
Flight PeriodOctober to April
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are 'loopers' or 'inchworms', characteristic of the Geometridae family, feeding on various native plants before pupating.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its cryptic grey-brown forewing pattern; species-level identification within the genus often requires examination of genitalic features.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with mottled grey-brown forewings featuring darker, wavy markings, and plainer light grey-brown hindwings.
