Orocrambus mylites facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Orocrambus mylites |
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O. mylites
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| Orocrambus mylites Meyrick, 1888
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The Orocrambus mylites is a type of moth that belongs to the Crambidae family. A scientist named Edward Meyrick first described it in 1888. This moth is special because it is endemic to New Zealand. This means it can only be found naturally in New Zealand and nowhere else in the world.
You can find the Orocrambus mylites moth in specific areas of New Zealand. These include Nelson and Marlborough. It lives in the "alpine zone," which means high up in the mountains. This area is usually cold and has special plants.
What Does the Orocrambus Mylites Moth Look Like?
This moth is fairly small. Its wingspan (the distance from one wingtip to the other) is about 19 to 25 millimeters. That's roughly the size of a large coin.
The front wings of the Orocrambus mylites moth are a pretty bluish-brown color. They also have grayish "fascia," which are like stripes or bands across the wings. These markings help the moth blend in with its surroundings.
Where Does It Live and What Does It Eat?
The Orocrambus mylites moth lives in the cool, high-altitude areas of New Zealand. It prefers the alpine zone, where specific plants grow.
The young moths, called larvae (which are like caterpillars), have a particular diet. They feed on a plant known as Chionochloa australis. This plant is a type of tussock grass found in New Zealand's mountains.
When Can You See This Moth?
Adult Orocrambus mylites moths are usually seen flying during the summer months in New Zealand. They are "on wing" (meaning they are flying around) from December to February. This is when they are most active and can be spotted in their mountain homes.
