# New Zealand Moths and Butterflies/Caradrinina

NEW ZEALAND
MACRO-LEPIDOPTERA.
I.—THE CARADRININA.
The Caradrinina may be distinguished by the following characters:—
"Imago with the fore-wings more or less elongate-triangular, termen not very oblique; hind-wings broad-ovate.
So far as New Zealand is concerned, the Caradrinina may be said to comprise that group of the Lepidoptera formerly known as the Noctuina, with the addition of the family Arctiadæ. Its members are chiefly nocturnal fliers; the body is usually stout, the forewings are narrow, and (except in the Arctiadæ) mostly dull-coloured, with three very characteristic spots. 1. The orbicular stigma, a round spot situated near the middle of the wing; 2. The claviform stigma usually somewhat club-shaped and situated immediately below the orbicular; and 3. The reniform stigma, a kidney-shaped marking situated beyond the orbicular. The claviform is very frequently absent, and the orbicular less frequently so, but the reniform is an almost constant character throughout the entire group, with the exception of the Arctiadæ.
There are three families of the Caradrinina represented in New Zealand, viz.:—
1. Arctiadæ.2. Caradrinidæ.3. Plusiadæ.
Family 1.—ARCTIADÆ.
The Arctiadæ may be characterised as follows:—
This interesting family, although generally distributed throughout the world, is very poorly represented in New Zealand. Unlike most of the Caradrinina, many of the included species are day fliers and gaily coloured. One of these, Nyctemera annulata, is probably one of the most familiar of New Zealand insects, whilst the four remaining representatives of the family are but seldom seen. To British entomologists the name of ​"tiger moths" will probably at once recall several conspicuous and beautiful members of this family.
Three genera of the Arctiadæ are represented in New Zealand, viz.:—
1. Nyctemera.2. Utetheisa.3. Metacrias.
Genus 1.—NYCTEMERA, Hb.
NYCTEMERA ANNULATA, Boisd.
(Plate IV., fig. 1 ♂, 2 ♀; Plate III., fig. 9, larva.)
This species is perhaps one of the best known of the New Zealand Lepidoptera, occurring in great profusion in all parts of both North and South Islands. It is also common at Stewart Island, in the neighbourhood of cultivation.
This species varies a good deal in the extent of the cream-coloured markings.
The larva feeds on the New Zealand groundsel (Senecio bellidioides), but in cultivated districts it is more often observed on Senecio scandens, a plant having a superficial resemblance to ivy, which frequently grows in great profusion on fences and hedgerows in various parts of the country.
Mr. W. W. Smith informs us that it also feeds on the common groundsel (S. vulgaris) as well as on Cineraria maritima. I have often seen these caterpillars on mild days in the middle of winter, and full-grown specimens are very common towards the end of August, so that I think there is little doubt that the species passes the winter in the larval condition. At other seasons there is a continuous succession of broods.
This caterpillar may be readily found, as it feeds on the upper surface of the leaves fully exposed to view. Its hairy armour evidently renders it unpalatable to birds, and hence the secret habits we observe in most larvæ are absent in this species.
When full-fed it selects a secluded spot, generally a crevice in the trunk of a tree, where it spins an oval cocoon of silk intermixed with its own hairs. Here it changes ​into a shining black pupa, speckled and striped with yellow. The insect remains in this state about six weeks.
The moth first appears in September, and continues abundant until about the end of March. It is extremely common, especially during the latter end of summer, when specimens may often be seen flying in all directions. Mr. Meyrick observes that this species has the curious habit of soaring in the early morning sunshine, soon after sunrise, in calm, fine weather. He states that he has seen them in numbers, flying round the tops of trees, at a height of over 100 feet. I can fully corroborate the accuracy of this interesting observation, and have noticed the insect to be most active between the hours of five and eight on fine mornings in midsummer. The habit is certainly a very unusual one, as most insects are rarely seen at that time of the day.
This moth is confined to New Zealand, but two closely allied species, belonging to the same genus, are found in Australia.
Genus 2.—UTETHEISA, Hb.
"A small genus inhabiting the warmer regions of the world. Larva with rather scanty hairs, some finely branched."—(Meyrick.)
Represented in New Zealand by a single species of wide distribution.
UTETHEISA PULCHELLA, L.
(Deiopeia pulchella, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xxii. 217.)
(Plate IV., fig. 3.)
This species was first observed in New Zealand in February, 1887, when I captured a single specimen in the Wainui-o-mata valley. Since that time Mr. A. Norris has seen two others near Petone, one of which is now in his collection. All the specimens at present noticed have consequently occurred in a very restricted portion of the Wellington District, though it is probable that the insect is far more generally distributed throughout the country than these records would seem to indicate.
The larva is thus described by Newman:—
In New Zealand the moth appears in February. Mr. Meyrick remarks:—"It is probably only an occasional immigrant. Although a feeble-looking insect, it possesses extraordinary capabilities of flight, and is sometimes met with far out at sea. It occurs throughout Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Pacific Islands." It is well known to ​English entomologists as a great rarity, and many discussions have taken place at various times as to the propriety of retaining it on the list of British Lepidoptera.
Genus 3.—METACRIAS, Meyr.
"An interesting and peculiar genus, apparently most allied to some Australian forms of Spilosoma, but quite distinct. Three species have been discovered, two of them quite recently, and it is not unreasonable to hope that additional forms may hereafter be found amongst the mountains, to which they seem especially attached."—(Meyrick).
METACRIAS STRATEGICA, Hdsn.
(Arctia strategica, Hdsn., Entom., 1889, 53. Metacrias strategica, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xxii. 216.)
(Plate IV., fig. 4.)
This handsome species is at present only known by a single specimen, captured by Mr. W. W. Smith, near the summit of the Richardson Range, in South Canterbury, at an elevation of about 3,000 feet.
This species may be readily distinguished from the two following by the yellow collar, absence of any large spot in the centre of both fore-wings and hind-wings, and the red colouring of the termen of the hind-wings. The moth was taken in February, frequenting a species of Carmichælia. It may be looked for in the mountainous regions of South Canterbury, but at present nothing further is known of its habits.
METACRIAS ERICHRYSA, Meyr.
(Metacrias erichrysa, Meyr., Proc. Linn. Soc. N. S. W., 1886, 749; ditto, Trans. N. Z. Inst. xxii. 216.)
(Plate IV., fig. 5.)
This species was discovered by Mr. Meyrick on Mount Arthur in the Nelson District in 1886. Since that time I have taken eleven specimens in the same locality, and have seen several others, but as yet I have not heard of its occurrence elsewhere.
The life-history is thus described by Mr. Meyrick: "The larva is wholly black, clothed with long black hairs, those covering segmental incisions brownish-ochreous. It feeds on Senecio bellidioides. The pupa is enclosed in a slight cocoon."
​The perfect insect occurs in January, frequenting sunny, grassy slopes on the mountain-sides, at about 4,000 feet above the sea-level. It flies with great rapidity; hence it is generally very difficult to catch.
METACRIAS HUTTONII, Butl.
(Phaos huttonii, Butl., Cist. Ent. 487; Metacrias huttonii, Meyr., Proc. Linn. Soc. N. S. W., 1886, 750; Trans. N. Z. Inst. xxii. 216.)
(Plate IV., fig. 6.)
This interesting species was discovered at Lake Wakatipu, by Professor Hutton.
Described and figured from a specimen in Mr. Fereday's collection.
Family 2.—CARADRINIDÆ.
The Caradrinidæ are distinguished by the following characters:—
"A dominant family in temperate regions, especially in the northern hemisphere, the species being very numerous and often occurring in great plenty; within the tropics, however, their place is largely taken by the Plusiadæ. The structure is in most particulars remarkably uniform, the neuration and palpi being practically identical throughout the family. The markings are usually very similar, and the colouring dull and adapted to conceal insects which are accustomed to hide amongst dead leaves or refuse; hence this family is not one of the easiest or most attractive to study. The species are the most truly nocturnal of all the Lepidoptera; few are readily obtainable by day, but at night they are found in abundance at flowers or sugar. Imago with fore-wings usually elongate, body relatively stout, and densely scaled. It may be noted as an established conclusion that antennal pectinations, if not extending to the apex of the antennæ, are in this family seldom sufficient to mark generic distinction.
"Ovum spherical, more or less distinctly ribbed, and reticulated. Larva usually with few hairs, often nocturnal, sometimes subterranean; often very polyphagous. Pupa usually subterranean."—(Meyrick.)
The family is represented in New Zealand by the following twelve genera:—
| Sub-family 1.—Poliades | $\scriptstyle {\left\{{\begin{matrix}\ \\\ \end{matrix}}\right.}$ | 1. Miselia. 2. Orthosia. 3. Xanthia. |
| Sub-family 2.—Melanchrides | $\scriptstyle {\left\{{\begin{matrix}\ \\\\\ \\\ \ \end{matrix}}\right.}$ | 4. Physetica. 5. Leucania. 6. Ichneutica. 7. Melanchra. 8. Erana. |
| ​Sub-family 3.—Caradrinides | $\scriptstyle {\left\{{\begin{matrix}\ \\\\\ \ \end{matrix}}\right.}$ | 9. Bityla. 10. Agrotis. 11. Heliothis. 12. Cosmodes. |
Sub-family 1.—POLIADES.
Genus 1.—MISELIA, Steph.
We have at present but one New Zealand species.
MISELIA PESSOTA, Meyr.
(Miselia pessota, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 29.)
(Plate V., fig. 26.)
This little species has occurred at Wellington in the North Island, and at Lake Coleridge and Rakaia in the South Island.
The perfect insect appears in January. One specimen was taken at sugar in the Wellington Botanical Gardens, and two specimens are recorded from Canterbury. It is evidently a scarce species.
Genus 2.—ORTHOSIA, Ochs.
"A considerable genus of nearly universal distribution, though mainly found in temperate regions of both hemispheres. The imagos are almost all autumnal, and their yellow and ferruginous colouring is doubtless adapted to the autumn tints of falling leaves."—(Meyrick.)
Represented in New Zealand by three species.
ORTHOSIA MARGARITA, Hawth.
(Orthosia margarita, Hawth., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xxix. 283.)
(Plate V., fig. 31.)
This species was discovered at Wellington by Mr. E. F. Hawthorne.
Described and figured from specimens in Mr. Hawthorne's collection.
ORTHOSIA COMMA, Walk.
(Plate V., fig. 27 ♂, 28 ♀; Plate III., fig. 11, larva.)
This is apparently a common and generally distributed species. It has occurred plentifully at Wellington, Blenheim, Christchurch, and Rakaia.
Both sexes vary a good deal in the depth of colouring, but the markings appear to be quite constant.
The specimens I reared were fed on lettuce, but I expect that the caterpillar feeds on low plants generally. It is full grown about January. The pupa state is spent in the earth.
The moth appears in January, February, and March. It is very common at the flowers of the white rata, and may also be attracted by sugar and by light.
ORTHOSIA IMMUNIS, Walk.
(Plate V., fig. 29.)
This species has occurred at Wellington in the North Island, and at Blenheim in the South Island.
The perfect insect appears in January, February, and March. It frequents the blossoms of the white rata, where it occasionally may be taken in the daytime, but more frequently at night. It is not, however, a common species.
Genus 3.—XANTHIA, Tr.
Only one New Zealand species is known at present.
XANTHIA PURPUREA, Butl.
(Graphiphora purpurea, Butl., Cist. Ent. ii. Xanthia ceramodes, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 31. X. purpurea, ib. xx. 46.)
(Plate V., fig. 32.)
This handsome species has been found at Wellington in the North Island, and at Dunedin in the South Island.
The perfect insect appears from September till April. It is usually taken at sugar or light, but is not a very common species.
Sub-family 2.—MELANCHRIDES.
Genus 4.—PHYSETICA, Meyr.
PHYSETICA CÆRULEA, Gn.
(Agrotis cærulea, Gn., Ent. Mo. Mag. v. 38. Physetica cærulea, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 5.)
(Plate IV., fig. 7.)
This fine species has occurred at Wellington in the North Island, and at Blenheim and Rakaia in the South Island.
The perfect insect appears in October, December, and January. Mr. Fereday states that it was formerly very common at blossoms.
Genus 5.—LEUCANIA, Ochs.
"A very large cosmopolitan genus, equally common everywhere; it is a development of Melanchra, to which some of the New Zealand species give such a complete transition that a line of demarcation can hardly be drawn. The larvæ all feed on Gramineæ."—(Meyrick.)
We have seventeen species.
LEUCANIA GRISEIPENNIS, Feld.
(Plate IV., fig. 8.)
This species has occurred at Wellington in the North Island. In the South Island it has been taken at Mount Arthur, Lake Coleridge, Rakaia, Akaroa, and Lake Guyon.
The following variety, taken on Mount Arthur, is thus described by Mr. Meyrick:—
The perfect insect appears from November till March, and is said to be very common in certain localities. It has been taken at considerable elevations in the Nelson province (4,700 feet above the sea-level on Mount Arthur, by Mr. Meyrick and myself). In Wellington it is certainly a scarce species.
LEUCANIA MODERATA, Walk.
This species has occurred at Rakaia in the South Island. It very closely resembles the preceding species, from which it is said to be distinguished by the cilia of the hind-wings, which are "partially grey in Leucania moderata, wholly white in L. griseipennis."—(Meyrick.)
The perfect insect appears in February. I am unacquainted with this species.
LEUCANIA TEMPERATA, Walk.
(Bryophila temperata, Walk., 1648 (nec Meyrick). Xylina inceptura, ib. 1736. X. deceptura, ib. 1737. Leucania temperata, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xx. 45.)
Described by Mr. Meyrick from the British Museum specimens.
I am unacquainted with this species.
LEUCANIA NULLIFERA, Walk.
(Plate IV., fig. 9; head, Plate II., fig. 11.)
This large though sombre-looking insect has occurred in the North Island at Taupo and Wellington. In the South Island it has been taken commonly at Mount Arthur, Christchurch, and Rakaia.
​In some specimens the fore-wings are quite destitute of markings, whilst in others the ground colouring varies considerably, and is occasionally dull brown instead of grey.
This caterpillar feeds on spear-grass (Aciphylla squarrosa), and only a single individual inhabits each clump. It devours the soft, central portions of the tussock, and its presence can generally be detected by a quantity of pale brown "frass," or discoloration, which is generally visible near the bases of the leaves. Owing to the formidable array of spines presented by the spear-grass, this larva can have but few enemies. The presence of these spines makes the insect a difficult one to obtain without special apparatus. A sharp pair of strong scissors, however, will enable the collector to cut off a sufficient number of the "spears" to allow of the insertion of a small trowel or hatchet under the root. The plant can then be lifted out of the ground, and the larva afterwards carefully extracted from its burrow in the stem. These larvæ are full grown about the end of May, which is consequently the best time to obtain them for rearing. The pupa is enclosed in an earthen cell amongst the roots of the spear-grass. The moth appears in November, December, January, February, and March. It is sometimes attracted by light. I have found it commonly on the Tableland of Mount Arthur at elevations of from 3,500 to 4,000 feet above the sea-level, where its food-plant also flourishes.
LEUCANIA PURDII, Frdy.
(Leucania purdii, Frdy., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xv. 195; Meyr., ib. xix. 8.)
(Plate IV., fig. 11.)
This fine species was discovered at Dunedin by Mr. Purdie. A single specimen has also been taken at Wellington.
The perfect insect appears in December.
Described and figured from specimens in the collections of Messrs. Fereday and Hawthorne.
LEUCANIA ATRISTRIGA, Walk.
(Xylina atristriga, Walk., Suppl. 756. Mamestra antipoda, Feld., Reis. Nov., pl. cix. 23. Leucania atristriga, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 8.)
(Plate IV., fig. 12.)
This smart-looking species is very common in the North Island in the neighbourhood of Wellington. In the South Island it has occurred abundantly at Nelson, Christchurch, Lake Coleridge, and Dunedin.
The moth first appears about January and continues in great abundance until the middle or end of April, being one of the last of our Leucanias to disappear in the autumn. It is extremely partial to the flowers of the white rata (Metrosideros scandens), where, on warm, still evenings, it may be often met with in the utmost profusion. It also comes freely to sugar, and is frequently attracted by light.
LEUCANIA PROPRIA, Walk.
(Leucania propria, Walk., Noct. iii.; Gn., Ent. Mo. Mag. v. 2; Butl., Voy. Ereb., pl. ix. 4; Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 9.)
(Plate IV., fig. 13.)
This insect has occurred in the South Island at Mount Arthur, Blenheim, and Mount Hutt.
This species varies slightly in the depth of its colouring.
The perfect insect is met with from January till March. On the Mount Arthur Tableland it occurred very commonly at about 3,800 feet above the sea-level. In this locality it was freely attracted by light, and large numbers of specimens were captured by the aid of a single candle, exhibited at the tent door during mild evenings.
LEUCANIA ACONTISTIS, Meyr.
(Leucania acontistis, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 9.)
(Plate IV., fig. 14.)
A single specimen of this species was captured at Castle Hill by Mr. J. D. Enys, and is now in Mr. Fereday's collection.
Described and figured from the specimen in Mr. Fereday's collection.
LEUCANIA PHAULA, Meyr.
(Leucania phaula, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 10.)
(Plate IV., fig. 15.)
Two specimens of this insect, "bred from tussock grass," were found at Christchurch.
The perfect insect appears in November.
Described and figured from a specimen in Mr. Fereday's collection.
LEUCANIA ALOPA, Meyr.
(Leucania alopa, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 10.)
(Plate IV., fig. 16.)
This species has occurred at Lake Coleridge and at Lake Guyon.
The moth appears in March.
Described and figured from a specimen in Mr. Fereday's collection.
LEUCANIA MICRASTRA, Meyr.
(Leucania micrastra, Meyr., Trans. Ent. Soc. Lond. 1897, 383.)
(Plate IV., fig. 10.)
Three specimens of this insect have occurred in my garden at Karori.
This species somewhat resembles Leucania alopa in general appearance, but the wings are narrower and the colour of the fore-wings is considerably brighter.
The moth appears in December.
LEUCANIA UNICA, Walk.
(Plate IV., fig. 17.)
This insect has been taken at Blenheim and at Rakaia.
The moth appears in November.
Described and figured from Mr. Fereday's specimens.
LEUCANIA AROTIS, Meyr.
(Leucania arotis, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 11. Leucania aulacias, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 11.)
(Plate IV., fig. 18.)
This species has occurred at Wellington in the North Island. In the South Island it has been found at Blenheim, Christchurch, and Rakaia.
The perfect insect appears in November and December. It is rather a scarce species.
LEUCANIA SULCANA, Fereday.
(Leucania sulcana, Frdy., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xii. 267, pl. ix.; Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 11.)
(Plate IV., fig. 19 ♂, 20 ♀.)
This species has occurred at Akaroa and at Dunedin.
The perfect insect appears in February, and has been taken at sugar.
Described and figured from specimens in Mr. Fereday's collection.
LEUCANIA SEMIVITTATA, Walk.
(Leucania semivittata, Walk., Suppl. 628; Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 12.)
(Plate IV., fig. 21 ♂, 22 ♀.)
This species has occurred commonly at Christchurch, Mount Torlesse, and Dunedin.
The moth appears in April and May, being found at night on the blossoms of the scabious.
Described and figured from specimens in Mr. Fereday's collection.
LEUCANIA BLENHEIMENSIS, Frdy.
(Leucania blenheimensis, Frdy., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xv. 196; Meyr., ib. xix. 12.)
(Plate IV., fig. 23 ♀.)
This rather striking insect has occurred at Napier and at Blenheim.
Described and figured from a specimen in Mr. Fereday's collection.
LEUCANIA UNIPUNCTA, Haw.
(Plate IV., fig. 24.)
This species has occurred at Napier and at Wellington in the North Island. In the South Island it has been found at Nelson and at Christchurch.
Varies considerably in the ground colour and in the extent of the black speckling.
​"Young larvæ closely resemble their food-plant in colour, and occasionally this is persistent throughout life; in fact the larva is very variable. Feeds on various grasses."
The perfect insect first appears about January, and continues in increasing numbers until the middle or end of April. It is often met with at sugar.
This species is of almost universal distribution, having occurred in Australia, Java, India, Europe, and North and South America. In England it is regarded as a great rarity.
Genus 6.—ICHNEUTICA, Meyr.
This genus is very closely allied to Leucania. It appears to be exclusively limited to New Zealand, where it is represented by two conspicuous species. Probably when the extensive mountainous regions of the country have been more fully explored by entomologists other species will be discovered.
ICHNEUTICA DIONE, n. sp.
(Plate IV., fig. 27 ♂.)
A single specimen of this interesting species was captured by Mr. C. W. Palmer, on Mount Arthur at an elevation of about 4,400 feet.
The type specimen is slightly damaged; but the species is so evidently distinct that I feel no hesitation in describing it.
ICHNEUTICA CERAUNIAS, Meyr.
(Ichneutica ceraunias, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 13.)
(Plate IV., fig. 25 ♂, 26 ♀).
This handsome species has hitherto only occurred on the Tableland of Mount Arthur, where, however, it seems to be common.
This species varies slightly in the intensity of the markings.
The moth appears early in January. It is much attracted by light. In 1891 I took over twenty specimens by means of a single candle exhibited, during three evenings, ​at the door of my tent. Prior to this date only one specimen had been taken by Mr. Meyrick during January, 1886. All these moths were met with over 3,500 feet above the sea-level, so that the insect is evidently confined to mountain regions.
Genus 7.—MELANCHRA, Hb.
"A large genus of very general distribution, but much commoner in temperate regions of both hemispheres. Relatively much more numerous in New Zealand than elsewhere."—(Meyrick.)
This genus includes no less than thirty-four species. Some of these are extremely difficult to distinguish owing to the obscurity of their markings, which offer unusual obstacles to clear description and delineation. I have, however, endeavoured to point out what, in my opinion, constitute the most reliable distinctions; but I fear that amongst those species, where only one or two specimens are known, cases of real difficulty will arise. Future investigation will no doubt result in a remodelling of some of the more obscure species in this genus.
It may be well to point out that the genus Melanchra was formerly known by the name of Mamestra.
MELANCHRA DISJUNGENS, Walk.
(Plate V., fig. 43.)
This species has occurred in the South Island at Ashburton and at Rakaia.
The perfect insect appears from November till January. It was formerly a common species near Rakaia, but is now much scarcer.
MELANCHRA PARACAUSTA, Meyr.
(Mamestra paracausta, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 15.)
(Plate IV., fig. 28 ♂, 28A ♀.)
This species has occurred in the South Island at Mount Arthur, Castle Hill, and Invercargill.
The species appears somewhat variable. In some male specimens the white colouring is largely replaced by pale yellowish-brown. Described and figured from specimens in the collections of Messrs. Fereday, Hawthorne, and Philpott.
MELANCHRA INSIGNIS, Walk.
(Plate IV., fig. 29 ♂, 30 ♀.)
This pretty species has occurred at Palmerston and Wellington in the North Island, and at Blenheim, Christchurch, and West Plains near Invercargill in the South Island. It is probably common and generally distributed.
Some specimens have the green and black markings slightly more pronounced, but otherwise there are no important variations.
The eggs are deposited in October and November. When first laid they are pale greenish-white, but become dark brown in the centre as the enclosed embryo develops. The young larvæ emerge in about a fortnight. At this time the two anterior pairs of prolegs are very short, causing the caterpillar to loop up its back when walking. In colour the young larva is pale brown, with numerous black warts emitting several long, stiff bristles. It is very active, and busily devours the soft green portions of the dock leaves, leaving the harder membrane untouched. Twelve days later the larva becomes pale green in colour, and moults for the first time, after which traces of subdorsal and lateral lines present themselves. Growth then proceeds with great rapidity, and in another eleven days the larva again sheds its skin. The last moult occurs a fortnight later.
Whilst rearing these larvæ I noticed that during the daytime they invariably hid themselves under the blotting paper at the bottom of the breeding cage. No doubt, under natural conditions, they retreat beneath the ground, only coming abroad at night to feed. This habit would account for the difficulty experienced in finding larvæ of this genus in a state of nature.
The pupa state is spent in the earth, and occupies about a month.
The moth appears towards the end of January. It evidently hibernates through the winter, as it is often seen very late in the autumn, and is always one of the first moths to come to sugar in the early spring. It is frequently observed at rest on fences and trees in the daytime.
MELANCHRA MAYA, n. sp.
(Plate IV., fig. 31.)
A single specimen of this species was taken on the Tableland of Mount Arthur, at an altitude of about 3,500 feet.
MELANCHRA PLENA, Walk.
(Plate IV., fig. 32.)
Apparently common in the Canterbury district, where it has been taken at Christchurch and Mount Hutt. In the North Island it has occurred in the neighbourhood of Wellington.
It varies a little in the intensity of the green colouring.
The eggs are deposited early in November. At first they are white in colour, but soon become dull brown, with two concentric circular markings. The young larva closely resembles that of the Melanchra insignis, but is much more sluggish. It feeds on grasses and other low plants.
In about six weeks' time it is full grown, when it still resembles the caterpillar of Melanchra insignis, except that its colouring is considerably darker, and a number of rust-red spots are situated on the subdorsal line. This larva also appears to spend the daytime underground, only coming abroad in the evening to feed. The pupa is concealed in the earth.
The perfect insect may be occasionally found at rest on tree-trunks in the forest, where it is very hard to discover, as it almost exactly resembles a little patch of moss or lichen. Specimens are sometimes noticed in the middle of winter, so there is little doubt that this species hibernates. It occurs in spring as late as November, and as the pupæ emerge during the latter end of January the insect is about for most of the year.
MELANCHRA LITHIAS, Meyr.
(Mamestra lithias, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 17.)
(Plate IV., fig. 33.)
Two specimens of this species were taken at Castle Hill by Mr. J. D. Enys, and are now in Mr. Fereday's collection.
Described and figured from a specimen in Mr. Fereday's collection.
MELANCHRA MUTANS, Walk.
(Plate IV., fig. 34 ♂, 35 ♀, 36 ♂, variety; Plate III., fig. 15, larva.)
This is a very abundant species throughout the country.
This species varies much in the ground colouring of the fore-wings, especially in the male, where it ranges from pale pinkish-brown to dark brown. The wings of the female are frequently much clouded with dark grey.
It is a sluggish caterpillar, and feeds on low plants (Plantago, &c.) during the whole of the spring and summer. It often frequents the luxuriant growth surrounding logs and stones which have long been left undisturbed.
The pupa state is spent in the earth or amongst moss on fallen trees. When this stage occurs in the summer it is of short duration, but in the case of larvæ becoming full grown in the autumn, the regular emergence does not take place until the following spring.
The moth may be observed on mild evenings nearly all the year round, but is commoner during the summer. It is an extremely abundant species, and is very often seen resting on tree trunks during the daytime, in which position the colouring of both sexes will be seen to be very protective.
MELANCHRA AGORASTIS, Meyr.
(Mamestra agorastis, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 18.)
(Plate V., fig. 30 ♀.)
This species has occurred at Wellington in the North Island, and at Akaroa and Lake Guyon in the South Island.
This species very closely resembles a dark specimen of Melanchra pelistis so far as the female is concerned, which is the only sex I have had an opportunity of examining.
The perfect insect appears in February and March. It is a scarce species.
MELANCHRA PICTULA, White.
(Plate IV., fig. 37 ♂.)
Three specimens of this handsome species have occurred at Lake Coleridge in the South Island.
The moth appears in March.
Described and figured from a specimen in Mr. Fereday's collection.
MELANCHRA RHODOPLEURA, Meyr.
(Mamestra rhodopleura, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 19.)
(Plate IV., fig. 38.)
This species has been taken in the North Island at Napier and Wellington.
This insect is very closely allied to Melanchra pictula, but the absence of the white reniform spot and the grey hind-wings, will at once distinguish it from that species.
The perfect insect appears in May and June. It is decidedly rare.
MELANCHRA MEROPE, n. sp.
(Plate V., fig. 2.)
A single specimen of this handsome insect was taken in the Wellington Botanical Gardens in October, 1887.
MELANCHRA PELISTIS, Meyr.
(Mamestra pelistis, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 20.)
(Plate V., fig. 3 ♂, 4 ♀.)
This species has occurred at Wellington and at Paikakariki, in the North Island. In the South Island it has been found at Akaroa and Lake Coleridge.
This species varies considerably in the ground colouring of the fore-wings. In some specimens the wing is almost entirely rich reddish-brown, whilst in others this colouring is confined to the vicinity of the stigmata and transverse lines. Numerous intermediate varieties exist which seem to connect these two forms.
The perfect insect appears in January, February, and March. It is very common in the Wellington Botanical Gardens on the white rata blossoms.
MELANCHRA PROTEASTIS, Meyr.
(Mamestra vitiosa, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 20 (nec Butl.). Mamestra proteastis, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xx. 45.)
(Plate IV., fig. 40 ♂.)
This insect is very common in the neighbourhood of Christchurch.
The perfect insect appears in May and June.
Described and figured from specimens in Mr. Fereday's collection.
MELANCHRA VITIOSA, Butl.
(Plate IV., fig. 42; Plate III., fig. 16, larva.)
This is a scarce species in the neighbourhood of Wellington. In Christchurch it is very common.
This caterpillar feeds on Melicope simplex, and when amongst the foliage of its food-plant it is extremely hard to detect, owing to its protective colouring and sluggish habits. The larva is full grown about October.
The pupa is enclosed in a light cocoon on the surface of the ground.
The perfect insect appears from November till April.
MELANCHRA DIATMETA, Meyr.
(Plate V., fig. 5.)
This species has occurred at Wellington.
The perfect insect appears in September and October. It is a rare species.
MELANCHRA TARTAREA, Butl.
(Graphiphora tartarea, Butl., Proc. Zool. Soc. Lond., 1877, 384, pl. xlii. 2. Mamestra tartarea, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 21.)
(Plate V., fig. 6.)
This species has occurred on the Murimutu Plains in the North Island. In the South Island it is a common species in the neighbourhood of Christchurch.
This species can easily be recognised by the pale terminal band of the fore-wings.
The perfect insect appears in March and April.
MELANCHRA HOMOSCIA, Meyr.
(Mamestra homoscia, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 21.)
(Plate V., fig. 7; Plate III., fig. 10, larva.)|.
This dull-looking species has hitherto only occurred in the Wellington district, where it seems to be fairly common.
Sometimes the grey colouring is very much darker, and a faint wavy line is present between the orbicular spot and the base of the wing. In other respects the species does not vary.
This caterpillar feeds on the Tauhinu (Pomaderris ericifolia) in December and January. It is very active in its habits, and immediately drops to the ground when disturbed. It is much infested by a dipterous parasite. The pupa state is spent in the earth and lasts about six weeks.
The moth appears in February, March, and April. It is attracted by light, and in consequence often enters houses.
MELANCHRA OMICRON, n. sp.
(Plate V., fig. 42.)
This species was discovered at Wellington by Mr. A. Norris.
The perfect insect appears in November.
MELANCHRA COMPOSITA, Gn.
(Plate V., fig. 8 ♂, 9 ♀; Plate III., fig. 7, larva.)
One of the most abundant of our night-flying moths, occurring in great profusion throughout the country.
This caterpillar varies considerably in the intensity of the light and dark markings. It feeds on grasses in January and September, and is very active. It often occurs in prodigious numbers, and at such times may frequently be seen travelling at a great rate over bare ground in search of food. Amongst the grass it is hard to detect, as the striped colouring is very protective in that situation.
The pupa state is spent in the earth, or under moss on fallen trees.
The moth appears from September till April. It is double-brooded. A few of the second brood emerge in the autumn and hibernate as moths, but the majority pass the winter in the pupa state. Hence we sometimes meet with specimens on mild evenings in the middle of winter.
This insect is much attracted by light, and occasionally assembles in vast numbers round a brilliant lamp. I have had as many as one hundred specimens in my verandah at Karori, attracted during two or three hours. It is by far the commonest insect at the collectors' sugar, the numerous visitors of this species eagerly jostling each other in their haste to obtain a share of the sweets. M. composita is likewise observed in the utmost profusion on attractive flowers of all kinds, crowding out the rarer and more aristocratic species. Mr. Hanify has drawn my attention to the remarkable habit this insect has of suddenly stopping ​during its flight, and thus eluding pursuit. It also takes wing with unusual rapidity. Specimens of this moth may constantly be observed at rest in various situations during the daytime, when the protective character of the colouring will be at once apparent, especially when the insect is partially concealed amongst grass. Mr. Meyrick informs us that this species is common in Tasmania and South-Eastern Australia.
MELANCHRA STEROPASTIS, Meyr.
(Mamestra steropastis, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 22.)
(Plate V., fig. 10 ♂, 11 ♀.)
This insect has occurred in the North Island at Napier. In the South Island it has been taken at Blenheim and Christchurch, but does not seem to be a common species anywhere.
The perfect insect appears from November till February.
Described and figured from Mr. Fereday's specimens.
MELANCHRA INFENSA, Walk.
(Orthosia infensa, Walk. 748. Mamestra arachnias, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 23. Mamestra infensa, Meyr., ib. xx. 45.)
(Plate V., fig. 12.)
This species has occurred in the North Island at Napier, and in the South Island at Blenheim.
Description compiled from that of Mr. Meyrick. Figured by Mr. W. B. Hudson from a specimen in Mr. Fereday's collection.
MELANCHRA OMOPLACA, Meyr.
(Mamestra omoplaca, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 24.)
(Plate V., fig. 13.)
This species has occurred in the South Island at Lake Coleridge and Rakaia.
The perfect insect appears in December, February, and March.
Description compiled from that of Mr. Meyrick. Figured by Mr. W. B. Hudson from a specimen in Mr. Fereday's collection.
MELANCHRA ALCYONE, n. sp.
(Plate V., fig. 14 ♂.)
During the autumn of 1894 several specimens of this interesting species were captured in the Wellington Botanical Gardens by Mr. A. Norris.
The perfect insect appears in March.
MELANCHRA DOTATA, Walk.
(Dasypolia dotata, Walk., Noct. 522. Mamestra dotata, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 24.)
(Plate V., fig. 16.)
This species has occurred at Nelson.
A single specimen of this insect was reared from a pupa found at Wakapuaka, near Nelson. Mr. Fereday also has a specimen, but without note of locality.
MELANCHRA ASTEROPE, n. sp.
(Plate V., fig. 15.)
A single specimen of this insect was taken at light on the Tableland of Mount Arthur, in January 1891, at about 3,600 feet above the sea-level.
This species is evidently allied to Melanchra dotata.
MELANCHRA STIPATA, Walk.
(Xylina stipata, Walk., Suppl. 753. Mamestra stipata, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 25.)
(Plate V., fig. 17 ♀.)
This fine species has occurred at Wellington in the North Island, and in the South Island at Christchurch, and West Plains, near Invercargill.
The perfect insect appears from October till May. It is common at Christchurch, but rather scarce in Wellington.
MELANCHRA OCTANS, n. sp.
(Plate V., fig. 1.)
This distinctly marked little species was discovered by Mr. Philpott, at Mount Linton, near Invercargill.
This species may be immediately recognised by the large, white, V-shaped markings on the fore-wings.
The perfect insect appears in March.
MELANCHRA RUBESCENS, Butl.
(Xylophasia rubescens, Butl., Cist. Ent. ii. 489. Mamestra rubescens, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 25.)
(Plate V., fig. 18 ♂.)
This insect is apparently a mountain species. It has been taken at Mount Arthur, Castle Hill, and Lake Wakatipu.
This species varies slightly in the shape and extent of the markings on the termen ​of the fore-wings, which occasionally cause the pale ground colour to form tooth-like projections. It also varies a little in the intensity of the other markings, and in the depth of the ground colour.
The moth appears in January and February, and is attracted by light. I have taken it in some abundance on the Tableland of Mount Arthur, at an altitude of 3,500 feet above the sea-level.
MELANCHRA LIGNANA, Walk.
(Hadena lignana, Walk., Noct. 758. ? Xylophasia morosa, Butl., Cist. Ent. ii. 543. Mamestra lignana, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 26.)
(Plate V., fig. 19 ♂.)
This pretty species is very common at Wellington in the North Island. In the South Island it has occurred at Mount Hutt.
Some specimens of this insect are slightly darker than others, but in other respects there are no important variations.
The perfect insect appears from October till April. It comes freely to sugar and to light, and is often taken at rest on trees and fences in the daytime.
MELANCHRA CŒLENO, n. sp.
(Plate IV., fig. 39.)
This interesting species has been taken at Wellington by Messrs. Hawthorne and Norris.
The perfect insect appears in November.
MELANCHRA USTISTRIGA, Walk.
(Xylina ustistriga, Walk., Noct. 630. X. lignisecta, ib., 631. Mamestra ustistriga, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 26.)
(Plate V., fig. 20 ♂, 20A ♀.)
This beautiful insect has occurred commonly at Wellington in the North Island, and in the South Island, at Blenheim, Christchurch, and Lake Coleridge.
​This insect varies slightly in size, especially in the female. The larva is dull greyish-brown, with the subdorsal and lateral lines darker. It feeds on honeysuckle during the summer months.
The pupa state is spent in the earth.
The moth is very irregular in its appearance. I have captured specimens in January, February, March, April, July and September. It appears to pass the winter in both the pupa and imago states. It is very partial to light, and in consequence often enters houses.
MELANCHRA PRIONISTIS, Meyr.
(Mamestra prionistis, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 27.)
(Plate V., fig. 21 ♂.)
This species is common at Wellington in the North Island. In the South Island it has been taken at Rakaia.
In this species the dorsal band is often considerably paler, but otherwise there is no variation.
The perfect insect appears from November till April. It comes freely to sugar, and occasionally to light. It is also sometimes met with at rest on trees in the daytime, where its colouring is protective. I have noticed that this moth is much commoner in some years than in others.
MELANCHRA PHRICIAS, Meyr.
(Mamestra temperata, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 27 (nee Walk.). Mamestra phricias, Meyr., ib., xx. 46.)
(Plate V., fig. 22.)
This species has occurred in the Manawatu district in the North Island. In the South Island it has been found at Christchurch and Lake Coleridge.
The perfect insect has been taken in December, February, March and June, and is attracted by light. It is rather a rare species.
MELANCHRA CUCULLINA, Gn.
(Plate V., fig. 23 ♂.)
This species has occurred at Mount Arthur, and at Rakaia.
This species is evidently closely allied to M. phricias, but may at present be distinguished by its darker and more bluish colouring.
The perfect insect appears in January and March. I have taken it at light on the Tableland of Mount Arthur, at 3,600 feet above the sea-level.
Genus 8.—ERANA, Walk.
We have one species representing this interesting genus.
ERANA GRAMINOSA, Walk.
(Erana graminosa, Walk., Noct. 605. E. vigens, ib., Suppl. 743. Erana graminosa, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 28.)
(Plate V., fig. 24 ♂, 25 ♀; Plate III., fig. 8, larva.)
This beautiful species appears to be fairly common in many forests in the North Island. It has occurred at Wanganui, Masterton, Palmerston, and Wellington. In the South Island it has been taken by Mr. Philpott, at West Plains, near Invercargill.
Some specimens appear to be rather darker than others, but beyond this I have not detected any variation.
The eggs are rather large, globular, flattened above and beneath, and pale green in colour.
The larva feeds on the mahoe (Melicytus ramiflorus).
These larvæ hibernate during the winter months, often secreting themselves in the burrows which have been made in the stems of the mahoe by various species of wood-boring insects. They come abroad about the end of August, and are full grown early in October. The pupa state is spent in the earth.
The moth appears in December, January, February, March and April. It is often ​found at rest on tree-trunks in the daytime, where its beautiful green colouring causes it to resemble, in the closest possible manner, a patch of moss. Mr. Hawthorne tells me that he has frequently found dead specimens in this situation.
This insect is, I think, commoner at slight elevations above the sea-level, forest ranges of from 500 to 1,000 feet in height being apparently the most favourable localities for the species. The appearance of the moth over so long a period would seem to indicate that there are two generations in a year, but I have never found full-grown larvæ in the middle of summer. There is, however, no doubt that the insect passes the winter in the larval condition. This species is often met with very late in the season, frequenting the few remaining blossoms of the white rata until the first or second week in April. Mr. Meyrick thus alludes to the scented tuft of hairs in the male insect: "The large tuft of the fore-wings is the source of a very strong vanilla-like perfume, which scents the box in which the specimens are contained for more than a week after their death; the scent is excited more strongly, even in the dead specimen, by stirring the tuft with a pin."
I can fully testify to the accuracy of this interesting observation.
Sub-family 3.—CARADRINIDES.
Genus 9.—BITYLA, Walk.
Of this genus we have two species in New Zealand.
BITYLA DEFIGURATA, Walk.
(Xylina defigurata, Walk., Suppl. 756. Bityla thoracica, ib. 869. Bityla defigurata, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 31.)
(Plate V., fig. 33.)
This species has been taken at Palmerston in the North Island, and at Blenheim, Christchurch, Lake Coleridge, Dunedin, and West Plains near Invercargill, in the South Island.
The perfect insect appears in January, February, and March, and is attracted by light. The single specimen I possess in my collection was taken in July, evidently hibernating. It is a rare species.
BITYLA SERICEA, Butl.
(Bityla sericea, Butl., Proc. Zool. Soc. Lond. 1877, 387, pl. xlii. 12; Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 31.)
(Plate V., fig. 34.)
This rather striking insect has occurred at Wellington in the North Island, and at Christchurch and Lake Guyon in the South Island.
The perfect insect appears in February and March, and is attracted by light. It is a rather scarce species.
Genus 10.—AGROTIS, Ochs.
"A very large genus occurring all over the world but much more plentifully in the northern hemisphere. The larvæ are very indiscriminate in their tastes, often feeding on almost any low plant; they are frequently subterranean in habit, but usually emerge by night to feed."—(Meyrick.)
This genus is represented in New Zealand by five species, one of which is an insect of almost world-wide distribution.
AGROTIS YPSILON, Rott.
(Noctua ypsilon, Rott. Agrotis suffusa, Hb. Agrotis ypsilon, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 32.)
(Plate V., fig. 35 ♂, 36 ♀.)
This handsome insect is probably very common throughout the country. It has occurred abundantly at Napier, Wellington, Nelson, Christchurch, Ashburton and Invercargill.
There are no noteworthy variations in either sex. The larva feeds on the roots of grasses. Its head is pale brown mottled with darker brown, and its body is lead-colour with darker dorsal and lateral lines. It remains underground during the daytime, coming abroad at night to feed.
The pupa is red-brown with a very sharp, spine-like extremity. It is concealed in the earth.
The perfect insect appears in January, February and March. It is often very abundant at various blossoms in the evening, and comes readily to sugar. It is an insect of almost universal distribution, occurring in Australia, China, India, Africa, Europe, and North and South America.
AGROTIS ADMIRATIONIS, Gn.
(Agrotis admirationis, Gn. (nec Meyrick), Ent. Mo. Mag. v. 38.)
(Plate V., fig. 37.)
This species has been taken at Christchurch.
Described and figured from a specimen in Mr. Fereday's collection. I am assured by Mr. Fereday that the above-described insect is the true Agrotis admirationis of Guenée, described from an identical specimen which he forwarded to Guenée. The following species, which is regarded by Mr. Meyrick as Agrotis admirationis, Gn. (see Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 33), is therefore renamed as below.
AGROTIS INNOMINATA, n. sp.
(Agrotis admirationis, Meyr. (nec Guenée), Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 33.)
(Plate V., fig. 39 ♂.)
Two specimens of this species have been taken at Wellington.
One specimen of this insect is considerably tinged with very pale olive-green instead of pink, but it is otherwise identical. As the available material is so extremely limited, I am unable to say which is the typical form.
The perfect insect appears in December. I am indebted to Messrs. J. H. Lewis and W. R. Morris for my specimens.
AGROTIS SERICEA, Butl.
(Plate V., fig. 38 ♀.)
This species has occurred in the South Island at Christchurch, Rakaia, and Ashburton.
This species seems to be rather variable both in ground colour and in markings.
The perfect insect appears in October, November, December and January. It is not a common species.
AGROTIS CEROPACHOIDES, Gn.
(Agrotis ceropachoides, Gn., Ent. Mo. Mag. v. 39; Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 34.)
(Plate VI., fig. 1.)
This species has occurred at Rakaia.
The perfect insect appears in July, August and September.
Described and figured from a specimen in Mr. Fereday's collection.
Genus 11.—HELIOTHIS, Ochs.
"A rather small genus, but very generally distributed, though commoner in subtropical regions; it is a development of Caradrina; some of the species have a very wide natural range. The larvæ feed especially on the blossoms of their food-plants."—(Meyrick.)
This genus is represented in New Zealand by the world-wide Heliothis armigera.
HELIOTHIS ARMIGERA, Hb.
(Heliothis armigera, Hb. H. conferta, Walk., Noct. 690. H. armigera, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 34.)
(Plate V., fig. 40 ♂, 41 ♀.)
This species has occurred plentifully at Waimarama (Hawkes Bay) and Wellington, in the North Island; and at Nelson, Blenheim, Christchurch, Rakaia, and Ashburton in the South Island. In Wellington it is certainly not so common as formerly, and Mr. Meyrick observes that its abundance is declining in some other localities also.
This insect varies a good deal in the ground colouring of the fore-wings, which ranges from dull yellow to brick-red, or even to dark yellowish-brown. The hind-wings are also much darker in some specimens than in others.
The larva feeds on the seeds and flowers of various plants. It is extremely variable in its colouring.
This caterpillar is often rather destructive in gardens. Amongst other things, it devours tomatoes and peas, the flowers and young fruit of pumpkins and vegetable marrows, the flowers and leaves of geraniums, veronicas, &c. It is full grown in the autumn.
The pupa is concealed in the earth, the insect remaining in this condition until the following summer.
​The moth appears in January and February. It often flies by day, and may then be seen disporting itself amongst the flowers of the Scotch thistle. Its larva may also be found feeding on these flowers.
This insect is practically cosmopolitan; it has occurred in the following countries: Australia, Samoa, India, Ceylon, Madagascar, Africa, Europe, North and South America.
Genus 12.—COSMODES, Gn.
We have only one species in New Zealand.
COSMODES ELEGANS, Don.
(Phalæna elegans, Don. Ins. N. H. Cosmodes elegans, Gn., Noct. vi. 290; Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 35.)
(Plate VI., fig. 2.)
This beautiful species has occurred at Napier and Ohau in the North Island. In the South Island it has been taken at Christchurch and Governor's Bay.
The perfect insect appears in March and April.
Mr. Meyrick states that it occurs commonly in Eastern Australia.
Family 3.—PLUSIADÆ.
The Plusiadæ are characterized as follows:—
"This family is by no means very prominent in temperate regions, but within the tropics it assumes immense proportions, and is there, probably, the most abundant family of the Lepidoptera. There is much greater diversity of size, colour, and form than in the Caradrinidæ, and also more variation in structure, though this remains more uniform than usual. Imago with fore-wings usually relatively broader and less elongate than in the Caradrinidæ, body often more slender.
"Ovum spherical, more or less reticulated, often also ribbed. Larva with few hairs, sometimes with prolegs on segments 7 and 8 absent or rudimentary. Pupa usually in a cocoon above the ground."—(Meyrick.)
The family is represented in New Zealand by the following four genera:—
| Sub-family 1.—Hypenides | Sub-family 1.—Hypenides | 1. Hypenodes. |
| Sub-family 2.—Plusiades | $\scriptstyle {\left\{{\begin{matrix}\ \\\ \end{matrix}}\right.}$ | 2. Plusia. 3. Dasypodia. 4. Rhapsa. |
Sub-family 1.—HYPENIDES.
Vein 5 of hind-wings parallel to 4.
Genus 1.—HYPENODES, Gn.
"Although consisting of very few species, this genus is almost universally distributed. Imago with fore-wings unusually elongate. Larva without prolegs on segments 7 and 8."—(Meyrick.)
We have one species in New Zealand.
HYPENODES EXSULARIS, Meyr.
(Hypenodes exsularis, Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xx. 46.)
"In the British Museum is an unnamed specimen from China, which appears to be certainly the same species; it, therefore, probably ranges through many of the South Pacific islands. From its small size and inconspicuous appearance it is doubtless often overlooked."—(Meyrick.)
Sub-family 2.—PLUSIADES.
Vein 5 of hind-wings more or less approximated to 4.
Genus 2.—PLUSIA, Ochs.
"A considerable genus, occurring throughout the world. Most of the imagos are handsome insects, often with metallic markings; some of them fly actively in bright sunshine. Larva usually without prolegs on segments 7 and 8, segment 12 more or less prominent above. Pupa in a rather open cocoon."—(Meyrick.)
This genus is represented in New Zealand by a single and very widely distributed species.
PLUSIA CHALCITES, Esp.
(Plate VI., fig. 3 ♂.)
This insect is probably generally distributed in the North Island, and in the northern portions of the South Island. It has occurred very commonly at Taranaki, Napier, and Nelson, but in Wellington it is rather a scarce species.
Mr. Meyrick mentions a variety in which the characteristic golden-white discal spots on the fore-wings are absent. I have not yet had the good fortune to see this form, and think it must be a rare one.
The larva has twelve legs; it is much attenuated towards the head; its colour is pale green, darker on the back; there is a number of wavy white lines and dots on the larva, as well as a few isolated black dots and hairs. It feeds on geraniums, mint, bean, Scotch thistle, and many other garden plants and weeds. Its original food appears to have been the "potato plant" (Solarium aviculare); but now it only occurs on this shrub in uncultivated localities, where there is no European vegetation.
The pupa is enclosed in a cocoon of white silk, generally situated between two dead leaves on or near the ground.
The moth first appears about September, and continues abundant until the end of summer. In Nelson I have seen it in great profusion, hovering over various flowers in the evening, at which time it also occasionally endeavours to gain access to beehives. In the same locality I have met with the young larvæ in the middle of winter, so that there is probably a continuous succession of broods all the year through in favourable situations.
This insect is found in Australia, Pacific Islands, Africa, South Asia, South Europe, and occasionally in the South of England.
Genus 3.—DASYPODIA, Gn.
We have one species.
DASYPODIA SELENOPHORA, Gn.
(Dasypodia selenophora, Gn., Noct. vii. 175; Meyr., Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 38.)
(Plate VI., fig. 4.)
This large and very handsome insect has occurred at Auckland, Napier, and Wellington in the North Island, and at Nelson, Richmond, and Christchurch, in the South Island.
The life-history is thus described by Mr. Colenso:—
The specimen from which Mr. Colenso's description was taken, was found at rest on the trunk of a large acacia-tree, which is probably the food-plant of the larva.
The pupa is enclosed in a cocoon formed of leaves fastened together with silk. The insect appears to remain in this condition for about two months.
The pupa-case (after emergence) is nearly cylindrical, very obtuse at the head, and tapering regularly downwards from the end of the wing-cases, with the tail conical; the abdominal segments are very strongly marked. Its colour is dark red, with a bluish or violet bloom, but smooth and shining on its prominent parts.
The perfect insect appears in January, February, and March, but it is rather a scarce species. It is attracted by light, and thus occasionally enters houses, where specimens are generally captured. Mr. Meyrick states that this insect occurs commonly in Eastern Australia.
Genus 4.—RHAPSA.
We have two species.
RHAPSA SCOTOSIALIS, Walk.
(Plate VI., fig. 5 ♂, 6 ♀.)
This remarkable species is extremely abundant and generally distributed throughout the country.
Some male specimens are much paler in colour than others, but with this exception there does not appear to be any important variation.
The eggs are round, flattened above, bright green, becoming dull purplish about two days after being laid.
The perfect insect appears from September till April, and is very common amongst undergrowth in the forest. It is seldom found in the daytime, but at night it is extremely abundant in densely wooded situations. It flies in a very stealthy manner, and may soon be recognised on the wing by this feature alone. When disturbed it always secretes itself amongst dead fern fronds or other vegetable refuse, where its sombre colour effectually conceals it.
The costal fold on the under side of the fore-wing of the male contains a very large tuft of extremely long hairs. It probably emits a scent agreeable to the female.
RHAPSA OCTIAS. Meyr.
(Hyperaucha octias, Meyr., Trans. Ent. Soc. Lond., 1897, 383.)
(Plate VI., fig. 7.)
This interesting little species has recently occurred in some numbers in the neighbourhood of Wellington. I have no record at present of its capture in any other New Zealand locality.
The perfect insect appears in October, November and December. It frequents dense forest ravines, and is generally disturbed from amongst dead leaves or old fern fronds. It is usually a very scarce species, but appears to be much commoner in some years than in others. According to Mr. Meyrick, it is also found in Australia.
This species is placed by Mr. Meyrick in the genus Rhapsa. The simple antennæ and absence of the broad costal fold in the males would appear, however, to remove it from that genus, as restricted by him in the 'Transactions' of the New Zealand Institute, xix. 38. In all other respects it appears to conform to the genus.
* ↑ Entom. xxvi. 220.
* ↑ Trans. N. Z. Inst. xxii. 218.
* ↑ 'British Moths,' 31.
* ↑ Trans. N. Z. Inst. xxii. 217.
* ↑ Trans. N. Z. Inst. xxii. 216.
* ↑ Ibid.
* ↑ Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 7.
* ↑ Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 10.
* ↑ Leucania aulacias, Meyr., is distinguished by having grey cilia to the hind-wings. The species was described from a single specimen taken at Dunedin and now in Mr. Fereday's collection. I have carefully examined this specimen, and find that the cilia, although considerably injured, are distinctly grey. As, however, I think it undesirable to characterize species so closely resembling each other from such meagre material, I here regard it as a synonym of Leucania arotis.
* ↑ Report of American Department of Agriculture, 1881, p. 93.
* ↑ Mr. Philpott informs me that the larva of M. paracausta closely resembles that of M. vitiosa.
* ↑ This species has been recently named by Mr. Meyrick, but a description of it has not yet been published.
* ↑ The accurate ascertainment of the positions of the veins near the costa in this species is a matter of considerable difficulty owing to the extremely dense tuft of hairs there situated.
* ↑ Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 29.
* ↑ Newman's British Moths, 319.
* ↑ Meyrick, Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 33.
* ↑ Meyrick, Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 35.
* ↑ Trans. N. Z. Inst. xix. 35.
* ↑ Meyrick, 'Handbook of British Lepidoptera,' 159.
* ↑ Trans. N. Z. Inst. xi. 300.
* ↑ Ib. xix. 38.
* ↑ Since this was written I find that Mr. Meyrick has created a new genus, Hyperaucha, for the reception of this insect. See 'Transactions of the Entomological Society of London,' 1897, 383.