Adeixis griseata facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Adeixis griseata |
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Adeixis
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A. griseata
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| Adeixis griseata (Hudson, 1903)
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Adeixis griseata, also known as the swamp looper moth, is a special type of moth. It belongs to the Geometridae family. This moth is only found in New Zealand, meaning it is endemic there.
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Discovering the Swamp Looper Moth
This moth was first described in 1903. A scientist named George Vernon Hudson gave it its name. He studied a specimen collected by Alfred Philpott. This specimen was found at Seaward Moss in Southland.
For a while, scientists wondered if this moth was the same as an Australian species. That species is called Adeixis inostentata. However, in 1920, Alfred Philpott compared the two moths closely. He decided that Adeixis griseata was unique enough to be its own species.
What Does the Swamp Looper Moth Look Like?
The swamp looper moth can look a bit different from one moth to another. This means its markings and colors can vary.
Its front wings, called forewings, are a silver-grey color. They have a small, round dot in the middle. There is also a dark brown or blackish triangle shape. This shape goes from the middle of the wing's base to its tip. Below this, there is a smaller brown triangle. The back wings, called hind-wings, are grey. They have a slight yellow-brown tint. When the moth is resting, it often points its head downwards.
Where Does the Swamp Looper Moth Live?
The swamp looper moth is found in different parts of New Zealand. It has been seen in the South Island. Places like Seaward Downs and Lake Manapouri are where it has been collected.
It also lives in the North Island. You can find it in areas such as Whangarei, Waimarino, Raetihi, Ohakuni, and Kaitoki. This moth has even been found on the Chatham Islands.
Home Sweet Home: The Moth's Habitat
The swamp looper moth likes to live in certain kinds of places. It prefers areas that are wet or swampy. These places often have poor drainage.
You might find them among plants like sedges and rushes. They also live near Gleichenia ferns. Native shrubs such as Pittosporum and Coprosma are also common in their habitat. Scientists are still trying to figure out which specific plant the Adeixis griseata caterpillars eat.
