Macrobathra bigerella
Common NameMacrobathra bigerella
Scientific NameMacrobathra bigerella
FamilyCosmopterigidae
SubfamilyCosmopteriginae
Wingspan (mm)10
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblack, white
HabitatWoodlands, forests, and areas with host plants
Geographic RangeEastern Australia (Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania)
Host PlantsAcacia species
Flight PeriodSeptember to April
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae are typically internal feeders on host plants, often within galls, seeds, or stems, before pupating.
Identification TipsKey features include the striking contrasting black and white pattern on the forewings and the noticeable tuft of scales at the tip of the abdomen.
Description
A small moth with dark brown to black wings prominently marked with irregular white or cream patches and spots, and a distinctive tuft of scales at the end of the abdomen.
