Golden-headed Micropterix vs Tau Emperor Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Golden-headed Micropterix Tau Emperor Moth
Scientific Name Micropterix aruncella Aglia tau
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Micropterigidae Saturniidae
Size 7-9 mm wingspan 55-80 mm wingspan
Habitat Wetlands Woodlands
Diet Pollen Feeders Herbivores
Regions Europe Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Golden-headed Micropterix

A tiny, metallic-headed moth that is among the most primitive living Lepidoptera. Adults have functional jaws instead of a proboscis and feed on pollen. A living fossil.

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Did You Know?

Retains functional chewing jaws like its ancient ancestors, predating the evolution of the typical butterfly proboscis by millions of years.

Tau Emperor Moth

A day-flying silk moth with a distinctive T-shaped mark on each wing.

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Did You Know?

Males fly rapidly in sunshine while females rest on tree trunks.