Reddish Wood Moth
Common NameReddish Wood Moth
Scientific NameCryptophasa rubescens
FamilyXyloryctidae
Wingspan (mm)45
Primary Colorsreddish-brown, pale brown, dark brown
HabitatForests, woodlands, and suburban areas with host trees
Geographic RangeEastern Australia (Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria)
Host PlantsAcacia, Eucalyptus, Casuarina, Grevillea
Flight PeriodOctober to April
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are wood borers, tunneling into the trunks and branches of various trees, creating a silken tunnel covered with frass. Pupation occurs within the larval tunnel.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its robust build, reddish-brown mottled forewings, and often pale, fluffy head and thorax. Its wood-boring larval habits are characteristic of the genus.
Description
A robust moth with reddish-brown forewings mottled with darker brown patches, and paler hindwings. The head and thorax are often covered in pale, fluffy scales.
