Silver Xenica
Common NameSilver Xenica
Scientific NameOreixenica lathoniella
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilySatyrinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsorange, black, white
HabitatSubalpine and montane grasslands, wet heaths, open forests, marshy areas
Geographic RangeSoutheastern Australia (New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania)
Host PlantsPoaceae (various grasses)
Flight PeriodDecember to March
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host grasses. The larvae are typically green or brown and feed on various grass species. Pupation occurs on or near the ground.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the prominent orange and black mottled pattern with multiple distinct eyespots on both wings, and the noticeable white-fringed wing margins. The underside often mirrors the upperside pattern but can be paler.
Description
This butterfly displays a vibrant pattern of bright orange-yellow patches interspersed with irregular black markings across both forewings and hindwings, featuring prominent black eyespots ringed with yellow. The wing margins are distinctly fringed with white.
