Eudonia epicremna facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Eudonia epicremna |
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Eudonia
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E. epicremna
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| Eudonia epicremna (Meyrick, 1884)
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The Eudonia epicremna is a small moth that belongs to the Crambidae family. This special moth is found only in New Zealand, meaning it is endemic there. You won't find it living naturally anywhere else in the world!
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Meet the Eudonia Epicremna Moth
This moth is a unique insect that flies in New Zealand. It was first described and named by a scientist named Edward Meyrick way back in 1884. Moths are fascinating creatures, and the Eudonia epicremna is a great example of the amazing insects found in specific parts of the world.
What Does It Look Like?
The Eudonia epicremna moth is quite small. Its wingspan (the distance from one wingtip to the other when the wings are spread out) is about 14 to 15 millimeters. That's roughly the length of a small fingernail!
Its front wings, called forewings, are mostly a dark, dusty brown color, which scientists call "fuscous." They also have splashes of yellowish-orange, known as "yellow-ochreous." The middle part of these wings has some white mixed in, and there are small white spots near the base of the wing and along the front edge. The back wings, or hindwings, are a grayish-brown color. The edges of the hindwings are a bit darker.
These adult moths have been seen flying around in January, which is summertime in New Zealand.
Where Does It Live?
The Eudonia epicremna moth lives in specific areas of New Zealand. Adult moths have been found on the hillsides below the Coronet Peak ski field. This area is known for its beautiful landscapes.
The young moths, called larvae (which are like caterpillars), live in the same area. They like to munch on "seepage mosses." These are special kinds of mosses that grow where water slowly seeps out of the ground. So, the larvae depend on these damp, mossy spots to grow and develop.
Who Discovered This Moth?
The Eudonia epicremna moth was officially named by Edward Meyrick in 1884. Meyrick was a British entomologist, which means he was a scientist who studied insects. He described many new species of moths and butterflies during his career. His work helped us learn more about the incredible diversity of insects around the world, including this special moth from New Zealand.
