Caterpillar and adult Joseph’s Coat Moth (Agarista agricola). Because of its beautiful colours and its day flying habits this moth is often mistaken for a butterfly. The caterpillars of the Joseph’s Coat Moth feed on the local native Slender Grape Vine (Cayratia clematidea).
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Australia is host to approximately 10,000 moths of which several thousand are native to South-East Queensland. They outnumber butterflies by far and are diverse in appearance. Unlike butterflies most moths are active at night and of great importance for the pollination of native plants.
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Bizarre Looper (Anisozyga pieroides). Male above left, female above right. In our catchments the caterpillar of this beautiful moth feeds on various broad-leaved wattles (Acacia spp, Mimosaceae), on bottlebrushes (Callistemon spp, Myrtaceae) and on the leaves of the Macadamia Nut (Macademia integrifolia, Protaceae).
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Left: Fruit Piercing Moth (Eudocima salaminia). This moth is considered an agricultural pest as the adult pierces especially but not only citrus fruit in order to obtain the juice. Its caterpillars feed on members of the Moonseed Family (Menispermaceae). - Right: Granny’s Cloak Moth (Speiredonia spectans). Common in our catchments, often found in our sheds, workshops, garages, where it hides during the day.
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 | The caterpillar of the Vine Hawk Moth (Hippotion celerio) comes in a range of different colours and feeds on a variety of plants. The moth can be found all over Australia and in many countries worldwide. It appears to be very important for the pollination of papaya (paw paw) fruit. The caterpillar depicted here currently pupates in leaf litter. A picture of the adult moth will hopefully follow soon.
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 | | | Magpie Moth (Nyctemera secundiana). This moth is common in our catchments. The adult is often seen feeding on flowers and flies at night as well as during the day. Its caterpillar feeds on a variety of garden plants and weeds. | | |
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