Japanese Oakblue vs New Zealand Magpie Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Japanese Oakblue | New Zealand Magpie Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Arhopala japonica | Nyctemera annulata |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Lycaenidae | Erebidae |
| Size | 30-40 mm wingspan | 35-45 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Forests | Gardens |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Predators |
| Regions | East Asia, Japan | Oceania (New Zealand) |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Japanese Oakblue
A beautiful lycaenid butterfly with brilliant metallic blue upperwings and cryptic brown underwings. Found in oak forests where its larvae live in association with ants. Known as 'murasaki-shijimi.'
Did You Know?
The caterpillars produce sweet secretions that attract ants, which then guard them from predators in a mutualistic relationship.
New Zealand Magpie Moth
A distinctive day-flying moth endemic to New Zealand, with black and white spotted wings. It is commonly seen fluttering in gardens and bush edges, where its hairy black caterpillars feed on ragwort and groundsel. The bold pattern warns predators of its distastefulness.
Did You Know?
The magpie moth's caterpillars feed on poisonous ragwort plants and store the toxins in their body, making both the caterpillar and adult moth toxic to predators.