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Epicyme facts for kids

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Epicyme
Epicyme rubropunctaria (12212235534).jpg
Scientific classification
Synonyms
  • Generic
    • Hippolyte Meyrick, 1883
  • Specific
    • Ptychopoda rubropunctaria Doubleday, 1843
    • Asthena risata Guenée, 1857
    • Asthena mullata Guenée, 1868
    • Asthena vexata Walker, 1869

The red-spotted delicate (scientific name: Epicyme rubropunctaria) is a type of moth. It is the only species in its group, called Epicyme. This moth was first described by Edward Doubleday in 1843. Later, in 1885, Edward Meyrick described the group it belongs to.

About the Red-Spotted Delicate Moth

This moth is part of the Geometridae family. These moths are often called "geometer moths" because their caterpillars seem to "measure the earth" as they move. They arch their bodies to bring their rear legs closer to their front legs.

Where the Moth Lives

The red-spotted delicate moth can be found in several places. It lives in New Zealand, which is a country made of islands. It also lives in parts of Australia, including the Australian Capital Territory, Tasmania, and Victoria.

What the Moth Looks Like

The red-spotted delicate moth has a wingspan of about 25 millimeters. This means that when its wings are spread out, they measure about 2.5 centimeters across. That's about the length of a small coin!

What the Moth Eats

The young moths, called larvae or caterpillars, eat different kinds of plants. They have been seen feeding on plants from the Haloragis, Gaultheria, and Geranium groups. These plants provide the energy and nutrients the caterpillars need to grow.

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