Macadamia Flower Caterpillar
Common NameMacadamia Flower Caterpillar
Scientific NameCryptoblabes adoceta
FamilyPyralidae
SubfamilyPhycitinae
Wingspan (mm)15
Primary Colorsgrey, white, black, red
HabitatOrchards, agricultural areas, gardens, forests
Geographic RangeAustralia, Southeast Asia, Pacific Islands
Host Plantsmacadamia, citrus, avocado, mango, litchi, tea, coffee, cashew
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical/subtropical regions
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on flowers or young fruit. Larvae are caterpillars that feed on flowers, developing nuts, or fruits, often webbing them together. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, slender body, and the distinctive mottled grey, white, black, and reddish forewing pattern. Often found near macadamia or other fruit trees.
Description
A small, slender moth with mottled grey and white forewings, marked with irregular black spots and reddish-brown streaks, and prominent dark compound eyes.
