Mitchell's Diurnal Cockroach vs Lichen Moth of New Zealand
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Mitchell's Diurnal Cockroach | Lichen Moth of New Zealand |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Polyzosteria mitchelli | Declana floccosa |
| Order | Blattodea | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Blattidae | Geometridae |
| Size | 30-40 mm | 35-50 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Deserts & Drylands | Forests |
| Diet | Herbivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Australia | Oceania (New Zealand) |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Mitchell's Diurnal Cockroach
A large, flightless cockroach with a shiny dark blue-black body found in arid Australia. Unlike most cockroaches, it is active during the day.
Did You Know?
Its bold daytime activity is thought to be possible because its dark, hard body deters predators.
Lichen Moth of New Zealand
A beautifully camouflaged moth endemic to New Zealand that resembles a patch of lichen when resting on bark. Both the wings and body are patterned with greens, greys, and whites that perfectly mimic lichen. It is found in native forests throughout the country.
Did You Know?
This moth's lichen-like camouflage is so convincing that it even has raised scale tufts on its wings that mimic the three-dimensional texture of lichen.