Pasiphila plinthina
Scientific NamePasiphila plinthina
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)22
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgreen, brown, pale green
HabitatNative forests, shrublands, gardens
Geographic RangeNew Zealand
Host PlantsCoprosma species, Hebe species
Flight PeriodOctober to May
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are 'loopers' or 'inchworms' that feed on native shrubs and trees, undergoing complete metamorphosis with pupation typically in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsIdentified by its small size, the distinctive cryptic green and brown mottled pattern on its forewings, and its endemic distribution in New Zealand.
Description
A small moth with mottled forewings displaying a cryptic pattern of pale green, olive, and dark brown markings, while the hindwings are paler with faint banding.
