Eudonia philerga is a species of moth of the family Crambidae.[1] This species was first described by Edward Meyrick. It is endemic to New Zealand, found throughout the country, and regarded as common. Larvae feed on moss. Adult moths have been observed on the wing more frequently from October to April, and are attracted to light.
This species was named Scoparia philerga by Edward Meyrick in 1884.[2] [3] Meyrick gave a detailed description of the adult moth in 1885.[4] George Hudson discussed and illustrated this species in his 1928 publication The butterflies and moths of New Zealand.[5] In 1988 John S. Dugdale placed this species in the genus Eudonia. The male holotype specimen, collected at Lake Wakatipu, is held at the Natural History Museum, London.
The larvae of E. philerga are about inch long and coloured a dull dark green with a head that is reddish brown. They have large blackish green protuberances. This colouration provides excellent camouflage as, when still, larvae are difficult to see amongst their host plant. The pupa is formed amongst moss and surrounded by a thin cocoon.
Hudson described the adult of the species as follows: Hudson noted that when at rest on trees or rocks, the colouration of the adult moth also provides excellent camouflage, safeguarding it from predators.
This species is endemic to New Zealand.[6] [7] It is found throughout the country and regarded as being common.[8]
It has been hypothesised that this species has two broods; and that adults of the autumn generation hibernate, since adults have been taken by light trapping during winter. Adults are on the wing throughout the year though more frequently from October to April. The adults of this species are attracted to light.
The larvae of this species feed on mosses found on wood.[9]
A specimen of this species has been tested for Wolbachia infection; the result of this test was negative.[10]