Asaphodes adonis facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Asaphodes adonis |
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Asaphodes
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A. adonis
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| Asaphodes adonis (Hudson, 1898)
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The Asaphodes adonis is a beautiful moth also known as the exquisite carpet moth. It belongs to the Geometridae family. This moth is special because it is endemic to the South Island of New Zealand. This means it lives naturally only in New Zealand and nowhere else in the world.
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About This Moth
Its Scientific Name
This moth was first described in 1898 by a scientist named George Vernon Hudson. He gave it the name Xanthorhoe adonis back then. Later, scientists moved it to the Asaphodes group.
What It Looks Like
The Asaphodes adonis moth has very bright green forewings. These wings have dark, wavy lines with white edges, creating a unique pattern. Its hindwings are a pale orange color, shaded with brown. You can tell this moth apart from its close relative, Asaphodes beata, by the color of its hindwings.
Where It Lives
This moth is found in the South Island of New Zealand. It has been seen in places like Castle Hill, Lake Wakatipu, and near Lake Harris. It also lives in Bold Peak in Otago, Mt Aspiring Station, and the Te Anau Ecological District.
The Asaphodes adonis is considered uncommon. It prefers to live in forests at heights between 300 and 1200 meters above sea level. During the day, you might find it resting on tree trunks. Its colors help it blend in with the lichen growing on the trees, making it hard to spot.
Its Life Cycle
Adult Asaphodes adonis moths are usually seen flying in January and February. This is when they are active and looking for mates.
What Its Caterpillars Eat
The young moths, called larvae or caterpillars, of A. adonis have been observed eating plants from the Ranunculus family. These are commonly known as buttercups.
Images for kids
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Male A. adonis illustrated by George Hudson.
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Observation of live moth.
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