Kiwaia plemochoa facts for kids

Kiwaia plemochoa is a small moth that belongs to the Gelechiidae family. A scientist named Edward Meyrick first described it in 1916. You can only find this special moth in New Zealand.

Meet the Kiwaia plemochoa Moth

This moth is quite unique because it only lives in New Zealand. It is an endemic species, which means it is native to just one place in the world. Moths are insects that are closely related to butterflies. They are known for their fuzzy bodies and wings covered in tiny scales.

What Does This Moth Look Like?

The Kiwaia plemochoa moth is quite small. Its wingspan is the distance from one wingtip to the other when the wings are spread out. For male moths, this is about 11 to 12 millimeters (about half an inch). Female moths are a bit smaller, with a wingspan of 8 to 9 millimeters.

The front wings, called forewings, can be a light or dark bronze-yellow color. They often have some grey mixed in. There is also a wide streak of whitish color along the front edge of the wing. The back wings, called hindwings, are usually a bluish-grey color.

Where Does This Moth Live?

The Kiwaia plemochoa moth lives only in New Zealand. This country is made up of two main islands and many smaller ones. It is known for its unique plants and animals, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth. The moth's habitat in New Zealand helps it find the food and shelter it needs to survive.