Ctenopseustis obliquana facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ctenopseustis obliquana |
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Cossina
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Ctenopseustis
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C. obliquana
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| Ctenopseustis obliquana (Walker, 1863)
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The Ctenopseustis obliquana, also known as the brownheaded leafroller, is a type of moth. It belongs to the Tortricidae family, which is a large group of moths often called "leafroller moths." This moth is originally from New Zealand. It has also been found in Hawaii, where it was introduced by humans. Other similar moths, like Ctenopseustis herana and Ctenopseustis fraterna, also share the name "brownheaded leafroller."
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About the Brownheaded Leafroller Moth
The brownheaded leafroller is a fascinating insect. It is known for its unique appearance and how its young ones, called larvae, feed on plants. Understanding these moths helps us learn more about the natural world around us.
What Does the Moth Look Like?
The brownheaded leafroller moth can have a wingspan of up to 25 millimeters (about 1 inch). This means the distance from the tip of one wing to the tip of the other can be up to 25 mm when the wings are spread out.
The colors and patterns on the front wings of these moths can be very different from one moth to another. They can range from a light fawn color to a dark chocolate brown. They often have darker markings on their wings.
Where Do These Moths Live?
This moth is naturally found in New Zealand. It is considered a native species there. This means it has lived in New Zealand for a very long time without human help.
However, the brownheaded leafroller has also been found in Hawaii. In Hawaii, it is an introduced species. This means it was brought to Hawaii by humans, either on purpose or by accident. When a species is introduced to a new place, it can sometimes affect the local plants and animals.
What Do the Larvae Eat?
The young moths, called larvae (or caterpillars), eat many different kinds of plants. They feed on a wide variety of broadleaved trees, coniferous trees (like pine trees), and even ferns.
Favorite Food Plants
Some of the plants they like to eat include:
How Larvae Feed
The larvae are called "leafrollers" for a good reason! They feed on the leaves, stems, and buds of their host plants. They do this while staying hidden inside a protective web. This web is made from silk they produce, combined with parts of the plant's foliage. This silk "tent" helps keep them safe while they eat.
Appearance of Larvae
When fully grown, the larvae are about 20 millimeters (about 0.8 inches) long. They are usually a translucent green color, meaning you can see through them a little bit. Sometimes, they can also be pale yellow.
