Australian Magpie Moth vs Western Banded Glowworm
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Australian Magpie Moth | Western Banded Glowworm |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Nyctemera amica | Zarhipis integripennis |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Erebidae | Phengodidae |
| Size | 35-45 mm wingspan | 15-30 mm (female), 8-12 mm (male) |
| Habitat | Underground | Heathland |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | Australia, New Zealand | North America, Western United States |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Australian Magpie Moth
A striking day-flying black and white moth from Australasia. Caterpillars feed on groundsel and ragwort, sequestering toxic alkaloids. The bold pattern warns predators of its toxicity.
Did You Know?
Its bold black and white pattern serves as a warning to predators that it contains toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids.
Western Banded Glowworm
A North American glowworm beetle where the larviform female produces rows of greenish-yellow bioluminescent spots along her body segments. Males are winged with elaborate feathery antennae.
Did You Know?
The glowing female looks like a miniature train at night, with paired lateral light organs resembling lit windows on a railcar.