Tonica effractella (Snellen, 1878)
(one synonym is : Teratomorpha coeliota)
DEPRESSARIIDAE

Don Herbison-Evans ( donherbisonevans@yahoo.com )
&
Stella Crossley

(updated 4 February 2008)

This Caterpillar normally feeds inside the growing shoots of:

  • Red-flowered Kurrajong ( Brachychiton paradoxum, STERCULIACEAE ), and
  • Monkeynut Tree ( Sterculia quadrifida, STERCULIACEAE ),

    although it has been known to attack:

  • Cotton ( Gossypium hirsutum, MALVACEAE ).

    The adult has wings which look as though a semi-circular piece has been taken out of the termen. It also has raised areas on its wings made of loose scales. They are fawn with dark markings, including one right on the tip of each fore wing.

    The moth has a wingspan of about 2 cms. The species is found in Queensland and New South Wales.


    Further reading :

    Ian F.B. Common,
    Moths of Australia, Melbourne University Press, 1990, p. 239.


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