Kiwaia thyraula facts for kids

The Kiwaia thyraula is a small moth that belongs to the family Gelechiidae. This family includes many types of moths, often called "twirler moths" because of how they rest with their wings. This particular moth was first described by a scientist named Edward Meyrick in 1885. It is special because it is endemic to New Zealand, meaning it is found only there and nowhere else in the world.

What Does the Kiwaia thyraula Moth Look Like?

This moth is quite small. Its wingspan is usually between 9 and 11 millimeters. That's about the length of your fingernail!

Forewings: Colors and Patterns

The front wings, called forewings, are mostly a pale, whitish color. They have tiny black speckles scattered all over them. These speckles make the wings look a bit dusty or "irrorated."

The moth also has some black markings on its forewings. These marks are not always very clear or sharply defined.

• There is a small black spot near the base of the wing, close to the front edge (the costa).
• Another spot is found a little further along, on a part of the wing called the fold. This spot is slightly angled from the first one.
• A black streak starts from the front edge of the wing and goes about halfway across. This streak is also a bit angled.
• You can also see three small spots in the middle area of the wing, known as the disc. The first spot is right in the middle. The second is on the fold, just before the first spot. The third spot is further back in the disc.

Hindwings: Simple and Pale

The back wings, or hindwings, are much simpler in color. They are a pale whitish-grey. This lighter color helps them blend in with the background when the moth is resting.

Where Does the Kiwaia thyraula Moth Live?

The Kiwaia thyraula moth is a native of New Zealand. This means it has evolved and lived in New Zealand for a very long time. It is an important part of New Zealand's unique wildlife. Being endemic makes it special, as you won't find this exact moth species anywhere else on Earth.