Scoparia limatula facts for kids

Scoparia limatula is a small, fascinating moth that lives only in New Zealand. This means it is endemic to New Zealand, found nowhere else in the world! It belongs to a group of moths called the Crambidae family.

Discovering the Scoparia limatula Moth

Who Described This Moth?

The Scoparia limatula moth was first officially described in 1930. A scientist named Alfred Philpott was the person who gave it its scientific name. Scientists often name new species they find.

Naming and Classifying Moths

Scientists use a system called taxonomy to name and group living things. This helps them understand how different species are related. For Scoparia limatula, its place within the Scoparia group of moths is still being studied. This means scientists are looking closely at its features. They want to be sure it's in the right scientific family.

Sometimes, scientists compare different moths very carefully. They look at things like wing patterns and tiny body parts. For example, the Scoparia limatula moth has been compared to another moth, Scoparia harpalea. Scientists found that some of their features look very similar. This helps them learn more about these amazing insects.

What Does the Scoparia limatula Moth Look Like?

Size and Wings

The Scoparia limatula moth is a medium-sized moth. Its wingspan is about 26 millimeters (about 1 inch). This is how wide it is when its wings are spread out.

Its front wings, called forewings, are mostly white. They also have small grey and brownish scales mixed in. The back wings, or hindwings, have a shiny, brassy-yellow color.

When Can You See Them?

Adult Scoparia limatula moths are usually seen flying during the warmer months. They have been recorded flying in January and February. These months are summer in New Zealand.