Asaphodes adonis facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Asaphodes adonis |
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Asaphodes
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A. adonis
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| Asaphodes adonis (Hudson, 1898)
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Asaphodes adonis (also known as the exquisite carpet moth) is a species of moth in the family Geometridae. It is endemic to the South Island of New Zealand.
Taxonomy
This species was first described by George Vernon Hudson in 1898 under the name Xanthorhoe adonis.
Description
A. adonis has vivid green forewings with dark coloured broad wavy lines edged with white which form a distinctive pattern. The hind wings are a pale orange shaded brown. This species can be distinguished from its close relative Asaphodes beata by the colour of its hind wings.
Distribution and habitat
A. adonis have been observed at Castle Hill and Lake Wakatipu, Lake Harris track, Bold Peak in Otago, Mt Aspiring Station, and in the Te Anau Ecological District.
This species is regarded as uncommon and is found in forest in the South Island at altitudes of between 300 and 1200 metres. It can be found during the day resting on tree trunks, camouflaged against similar coloured lichen growth.
Life cycle
Adults are on the wing in January and February.
Host plant
Larvae of A. adonis have been reared on species of Ranunculus.
Images for kids
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Male A. adonis illustrated by George Hudson.
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Observation of live moth.
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