Philobota philostaura
Common NamePhilobota philostaura
Scientific NamePhilobota philostaura
FamilyOecophoridae
SubfamilyOecophorinae
Wingspan (mm)22.5
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, white, brown, black
HabitatForests, woodlands, shrublands, and gardens
Geographic RangeSoutheastern Australia (New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania, Queensland)
Host Plantsdetritus, lichens, various native plants
Flight PeriodWarmer months (spring to autumn)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae are typically concealed feeders, consuming detritus, lichens, or plant matter, before pupating in a cocoon.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its mottled grey and white forewing pattern with scattered dark brown/black scales, and its typical Oecophoridae resting posture with wings held flat over the body.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with forewings cryptically patterned in mottled shades of grey, white, and dark brown/black, often with indistinct darker markings.
