Macadamia Cup Moth
Common NameMacadamia Cup Moth
Scientific NameDarna trima
FamilyLimacodidae
SubfamilyLimacodinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Primary Colorsbrown, cream
HabitatTropical and subtropical agricultural areas, plantations, forests
Geographic RangeSoutheast Asia, Australia (Queensland, New South Wales), Pacific Islands
Host Plantsmacadamia, oil palm, coconut palm, coffee, tea, mango
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical climates
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are slug-like caterpillars covered in stinging spines, known as cupworms. They pupate in distinctive hard, cup-shaped cocoons.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive dark brown and creamy white mottled wing pattern, especially the saddle-like marking. The prominent, forward-projecting labial palps are also characteristic.
Description
A small moth with a stocky, hairy body and forewings featuring a complex pattern of dark brown and creamy white patches, often forming a saddle-like mark on the thorax.
