Cryptophasa zorodes is a species of moth in the family Xyloryctidae. The species was first described by Australian entomologist Alfred Jefferis Turner in 1917. It is endemic to Australia, with recorded occurrences limited to the Northern Territory, particularly around Port Darwin【1】.
Description
The adult moth has a wingspan of approximately 48 mm. The forewings are described as pale grey, while the hindwings are grey‑whitish in coloration【1】. Sexual dimorphism in size is noted, with females typically larger than males【2】.
Taxonomy
- Order: Lepidoptera
- Family: Xyloryctidae
- Genus: Cryptophasa
- Species: C. zorodes
The taxonomic placement of C. zorodes is supported by several authoritative databases, including the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF), the Catalogue of Life, and the Integrated Taxonomic Information System (ITIS)【3】【4】.
Distribution and Habitat
Cryptophasa zorodes has been recorded only from the Northern Territory of Australia. Specimens have been collected from the coastal region of Port Darwin, suggesting a preference for habitats present in that area, although detailed ecological data are lacking.
References
- Turner, A. J. (1917). Description of new Australian Lepidoptera. Proceedings of the Royal Society of Queensland.
- Grokipedia. “Cryptophasa zorodes.” https://grokipedia.com/page/cryptophasa_zorodes (accessed April 2026).
- GBIF. “Cryptophasa zorodes Turner, 1917.” https://www.gbif.org/species/1835914 (accessed April 2026).
- Catalogue of Life. “Cryptophasa zorodes.” https://www.catalogueoflife.org (accessed April 2026).