Izatha gibbsi facts for kids

Izatha gibbsi is a small moth that lives only in New Zealand. It's part of a moth family called Oecophoridae. The Department of Conservation in New Zealand says this moth is "At Risk, Naturally Uncommon." This means it's not found in many places and needs protection. It was named after a famous New Zealand scientist, George W. Gibbs.

Discovering the Izatha gibbsi Moth

This moth was first officially described in 2010 by a scientist named Robert J. B. Hoare. He named it to honor George W. Gibbs, who contributed a lot to studying insects in New Zealand.

The very first example of this moth, called a holotype specimen, is kept safe at the New Zealand Arthropod Collection. This helps scientists compare and identify other moths.

What Does Izatha gibbsi Look Like?

The Izatha gibbsi moth is quite small. Male moths have a wingspan of about 12.5 to 13.5 millimeters. Female moths are a bit larger, with a wingspan of 13.5 to 20 millimeters.

This moth is mostly grey. It doesn't have many clear patterns or markings on its wings. This plain look helps scientists tell it apart from other similar moths, like I. rigescens.

Where Does Izatha gibbsi Live?

This moth is endemic to New Zealand, which means it's found nowhere else in the world. It lives in the western parts of the North Island.

You can find it in areas like Northland, Auckland, and Taranaki districts.

Life Cycle and Behavior of Izatha gibbsi

Adult Izatha gibbsi moths have been seen flying around during the months of February and March. This is when they are active and likely looking for mates.

Protecting the Izatha gibbsi Moth

The Izatha gibbsi moth is considered "At Risk, Naturally Uncommon" by the New Zealand Threat Classification System. This means it's not common in nature and its population might be small or spread out.

Because it's "At Risk," efforts are made to protect its habitats and ensure this unique New Zealand moth continues to thrive.