Izatha epiphanes
Common NameIzatha epiphanes
Scientific NameIzatha epiphanes
FamilyOecophoridae
SubfamilyOecophorinae
Wingspan (mm)19
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorswhite, black, brown
HabitatNative forests, particularly those with broadleaf trees
Geographic RangeNorth Island, New Zealand
Host PlantsCoprosma, Griselinia, Melicytus, Myrsine, Pseudopanax, Schefflera, Vitex lucens
Flight PeriodOctober to March
Flight Stylefluttering
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are wood-borers, feeding within dead wood of various native broadleaf trees. Pupation occurs within the larval gallery.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its specific forewing pattern of white with bold, irregular black and dark brown markings, and its endemic range in New Zealand's North Island.
Description
A small moth with striking white forewings heavily marked with irregular black and dark brown patches, creating a mottled, cryptic appearance. The head and thorax are predominantly white.
