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This moth looks very similar to Hypena laceratalis, although may be a different species of Hypena.
Photograph copyright: ozwildlife - all rights reserved. Used with permission.
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Hypena species
Photograph copyright: ozwildlife - all rights reserved. Used with permission.
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Hypena species
Photograph copyright: ozwildlife - all rights reserved. Used with permission.
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HYPENA MOTH FACTS |
Identification
Hypena laceratalis is a triangular shaped moth. The forewings are shades of brown with lilaac coloured curve, and small flame-shaped zigzag pattern near tips of wings. The hindwings are plain brown.
Size
wingspan 3cm
Food
Adults feed on flowers. The caterpillars feed on Lantana leaves and cause seasonal defoliation.
Breeding
They lay eggs on the undersides of leaves. Pupation occurs in the soil. Development from egg to adult takes about 28 days.
Range
Hypena laceratalis is found in Africa, Asia and Australia. It was introduced to Australia in 1965 as a biocontrol agent for Lantana camara. It is found from north Queensland to Kempsey in New South Wales.
Classification
| Class: | Insecta | | Order: | Lepidoptera | | Family: | Noctuidae | | Genus: | Hypena | | Species: | laceratalis | | Common Name: | Hypena moth |
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