Oxycanus dirempta
Common NameOxycanus dirempta
Scientific NameOxycanus dirempta
FamilyHepialidae
Wingspan (mm)50
Primary Colorsbrown, cream, dark brown
HabitatGrasslands, woodlands, agricultural areas
Geographic RangeSoutheastern Australia
Host Plantsgrasses, herbaceous plants
Flight PeriodApril to June (late autumn to early winter in Australia)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are subterranean root feeders, living in tunnels in the soil and feeding on the roots of various plants. Pupation occurs underground within these tunnels.
Identification TipsKey features include the stout, hairy body, the distinctive pale diagonal stripe on the forewings, and the mottled brown and cream coloration. Antennae are short and simple.
Description
This is a robust, cryptically colored moth with mottled brown and cream forewings, featuring a distinct pale diagonal stripe. Its body is stout and hairy, typical of ghost moths.
