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Graphania facts for kids

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Graphania
Graphania mutans.jpg
Graphania mutans
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Graphania

Graphania is a special group, or genus, of moths. Think of a genus like a family name for animals that are very closely related. These moths are part of a bigger group called the Noctuidae family, which are often known as "owlet moths."

There are more than 100 different kinds of moths in the Graphania genus. Each kind is called a species. They all share similar features, but each species has its own unique look or habits.

What are Graphania Moths?

Graphania moths are insects with wings covered in tiny scales. They are mostly active at night, which means they are nocturnal. Like all moths, they go through a complete metamorphosis during their life cycle. This means they change from an egg, to a larva (caterpillar), to a pupa, and finally to an adult moth.

Where Do They Live?

Most Graphania moths are found in New Zealand. They live in different habitats, from forests to grasslands. Their caterpillars often feed on various plants, and the adult moths help to pollinate flowers.

Some Graphania Species

With over 100 species, Graphania is a diverse group! Here are a few examples of the different kinds of moths you might find in this genus:

  • Graphania agorastis
  • Graphania averilla
  • Graphania beata
  • Graphania bromias
  • Graphania brunneosa
  • Graphania chlorodonta
  • Graphania disjungens
  • Graphania erebia
  • Graphania fenwicki
  • Graphania lindsayi
  • Graphania sequens

Each of these names refers to a specific type of Graphania moth. Scientists give them these special names to tell them apart.

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