{{Taxobox | name = Pasiphila erratica | status = GNR | regnum = [[Animalia]] | phylum = [[Arthropoda]] | classis = [[Insecta]] | ordo = [[Lepidoptera]] | familia = [[Geometridae]] | genus = ''[[Pasiphila]]'' | species = ''P. erratica'' }} {{binomial |''Pasiphila erratica'' |[[Philpott]], 1916 }}
Pasiphila erratica is a species of [[moth]] in the family [[Geometridae]]. It is [[endemic]] to [[New Zealand]].
Taxonomy
The species was first formally described by [[Alfred Philpott]] in 1916. Philpott collected the [[type specimen]] at Seaward Bush, near Invercargill, New Zealand. The specific epithet "erratica" is Latin for "wandering" or "erratic," possibly referring to the moth's distribution or flight pattern.Description
Pasiphila erratica is a relatively small moth, with an [[wingspan]] typically ranging from 20 to 22 millimeters. The [[forewings]] are generally greenish-grey to brownish-grey, often marked with several darker, indistinct transverse [[fasciae]] (bands). A small, distinct black [[discal spot]] is frequently present near the center of the forewing. The [[hindwings]] are usually paler than the forewings, often a plain greyish-white or pale grey, and lack prominent markings. Its coloration provides effective camouflage against tree bark or foliage within its natural habitat.Distribution and Habitat
This species is widely distributed throughout the main islands of New Zealand, including the North Island, South Island, and Stewart Island. It inhabits various environments, including native forests, scrubland, and areas where its host plants are present, such as forest margins and possibly suburban gardens.Biology
- Life Cycle: Like all [[Lepidoptera]], P. erratica undergoes complete [[metamorphosis]], passing through egg, larval (caterpillar), pupal, and adult stages.
- Host Plants: The larvae of Pasiphila erratica are known to feed on the foliage of several native New Zealand plants. Recorded host plants include [[Pittosporum tenuifolium]] (commonly known as kohuhu or black matipo) and [[Melicope simplex]] (poataniwha).
- Flight Period: Adult moths are typically observed on the wing during the New Zealand spring and summer months, from approximately October to March. They are [[nocturnal]] and, like many moths, are attracted to artificial light sources.