Oxycanus beltista
Common NameOxycanus beltista
Scientific NameOxycanus beltista
FamilyHepialidae
SubfamilyHepialinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, cream
HabitatWoodlands, forests, grasslands
Geographic RangeSoutheastern Australia (New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania)
Host Plantsroots of various grasses, herbaceous plants
Flight PeriodLate autumn to winter (Southern Hemisphere)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are subterranean root feeders, living in tunnels in the soil. Pupation also occurs underground, with adults emerging primarily for reproduction.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive mottled brown and tan forewing pattern with pale spots along the outer edge. Its robust, hairy body and relatively short antennae are characteristic of the Hepialidae family.
Description
This is a medium-sized moth with mottled brown and tan forewings, featuring irregular lighter patches and a series of small pale spots along the outer margin. Its body is robust and covered in dense, brownish hair.
