North Island Zebra Moth (Declana atronivea)
The North Island zebra moth is a member of the family of geometer moths. It is a native of New Zealand and is notable for the asymmetric markings on their wings. The only other insect other than this moth with such markings is the mantis Tithrone roseipennis.
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Scientific Classification
- Family: Geometridae
- Genus: Declana
- Scientific Name: Declana atronivea
Description and Identification
Caterpillar
Caterpillars come in varying shades of brown, from black to green to white. They are lumpy and, early on, can camouflage as a bird dropping especially when curled up on a leaf. Mature larvae can reach up to 3 cm.
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Pupa
Pupation takes place inside a lightly colored cocoon amongst the leaves of the host plant.
Adult Moth
Sexual Dimorphism: Present. The female has darker underwings and more markings on the forewings.
Color and Appearance
Forewing: When the wings are opened, they are white and covered with dark brown or black markings. When the wings are closed, the colors and patterns still remain visible.
Hindwing: When the wings are opened, they are translucent. When the wings are closed, the colors are no longer visible.
Average wingspan: 4-4.5 cm
Flight pattern: Erratic
Season: February – March
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Egg
The eggs are initially green, turn blue with purple spots after a week, and finally, become light purple just before hatching. They are oval and a little rough on the surface. These eggs are singly laid at the end of October, hatching after 11 days.
Quick Facts
| Other names | North Island lichen moth |
| Distribution | New Zealand; mainly parts of North Island, including Mount Taranaki, Mount Ruapehu, Napier, Otaki, and Wellington |
| Habitat | Forested areas |
| Lifespan of Adults | Not recorded |
| Predators | Birds |
| Host Plants | Five Finger and lancewood |
| Adult Diet | Does not feed |
Did You Know
- English entomologist Francis Walker first described this species in 1865.
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Scientific Classification
- Family: Geometridae
- Genus: Declana
- Scientific Name: Declana atronivea
