Moths of Toowoomba

 Tebenna micalis CHOREUTINAE CHOREUTIDAE

Family:- CHOREUTIDAE
Sub Family:- CHOREUTINAE
Genus:- Tebenna
Species:- micalis

  Tebenna micalis CHOREUTINAE CHOREUTIDAE

These are a very small moth. It is easy to miss seeing them but they are quite a decorative moth when seen close up. The family CHOREUTIDAE have patches of highly reflective scales on their wings earning the name "metal mark moths". They are difficult to photograph because of their size and they are very active.
The photos show some of the changes in appearance with different light angles.

Although active during the day they will come to light at night especially if the light has a blue/UV component.
Many moths are attracted to lights. Tungsten lights, cool white flourescents will attract some. I also use a small low powered, party ultra violet globe in a desk lamp. The light needs to be minimal because I am interested only in the moths (and other insects) on our property. Entomologists collecting over a large area use mercury vapour lights.

The larvae feed on the leaves of everlasting daisies, scotch thistle and others in the ASTERACEAE plant family eating out the material between the upper and lower surfaces.
Maximum wing span would only be about 8-10mm.

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