Ischalis variabilis facts for kids
Ischalis variabilis is a special kind of moth found only in New Zealand. It belongs to a group of moths called Geometridae, which are sometimes called 'loopers' or 'inchworms' because of how their caterpillars move. This moth was first described by a scientist named William Warren in 1895. You can find this moth all over New Zealand, in both the North and South islands.
Quick facts for kids Ischalis variabilis |
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Ischalis
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I. variabilis
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| Ischalis variabilis (Warren, 1895)
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Contents
What Does the Moth Look Like?
The Ischalis variabilis moth has special markings on its front wings. You can usually see two or three lines going across them. Both male and female moths have four small spots on their wings. These spots are visible from both the top and bottom of the wings.
When Can You See Them?
These moths can be seen flying almost all year round in New Zealand. The only time they are not usually seen is in June, especially in the North Island. Their busiest flying time is from October to March. It seems like they have two main breeding periods each year. However, if the winter is mild, they might keep breeding continuously.
Life Cycle of the Moth
Like all moths, the Ischalis variabilis goes through different stages in its life.
Eggs
The female moths usually lay their eggs in January and February. The eggs are almost round, but a little bit oval. They are flat on one side and have a pale bluish-green color. If you look closely, you can see many tiny hexagonal (six-sided) patterns on the surface. As the baby moth inside grows, small reddish-brown spots start to appear on the eggshell.
Larvae (Caterpillars)
When the eggs hatch, tiny caterpillars emerge. These young caterpillars are a very pale yellowish-brown color. They have two wavy orange-red lines along their backs. When fully grown, the caterpillars are about 32 millimeters long. They are a pale rusty-brown color with a faint pale-brown line down their back.
What Do Caterpillars Eat?
These caterpillars like to eat the leaves of certain fern plants. They have been seen feeding on Cyathea and Dicksonia species.
Pupation
After growing big enough, the caterpillar changes into a pupa. This is a resting stage where it transforms into an adult moth. The pupa is usually hidden inside a curled-up fern leaf. Sometimes, it might also hide among the dead leaves on the ground.
