Fiji Moth vs Clouded Yellow
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Fiji Moth | Clouded Yellow |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Heterallactis baibakoua | Colias croceus |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Zygaenidae | Pieridae |
| Size | 25-35 mm wingspan | Wingspan 46-54mm |
| Habitat | Forests | Farmland |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Herbivores |
| Regions | Oceania (Fiji) | Europe, Africa, Asia |
| Conservation | Near Threatened | Least Concern |
Fiji Moth
A day-flying forester moth endemic to Fiji, with metallic blue-black wings. It is found in native forest where its larvae feed on native vines. The bright metallic colouration suggests it may be chemically defended.
Did You Know?
The metallic blue sheen of this moth's wings is produced by nanoscale structures rather than pigments, making the colour unfadeable even in museum specimens.
Clouded Yellow
A fast-flying bright orange-yellow butterfly with black wing borders. A pale female form called helice has greenish-white wings instead of orange.
Did You Know?
It migrates north from the Mediterranean each year but the return generation flies south at such high altitude it is rarely observed.