Arignota stercorata (Xyloryctidae, Xylorictinae)


Arignota stercorata has been recorded on the east coast of Australia from southern Victoria to far north Queensland. Also in Papua New Guinea. The moths appearance mimics a bird dropping to avoid predators noticing it. The larvae lives in tunnels in its food plant which has been recorded as Elaeocarpus obovatus (Elaeocarpaceae) known by various names including Hard Quandong. The larva forages outside its tunnel, collecting leaves for food and tying them to the entrance hole to eat from inside, in safety.


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