Mother of Pearl Moth vs Mountain Stone Weta
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Mother of Pearl Moth | Mountain Stone Weta |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Patania ruralis | Hemideina maori |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Orthoptera |
| Family | Crambidae | Anostostomatidae |
| Size | 30-40 mm wingspan | 40-60 mm |
| Habitat | Hedgerows | Mountains |
| Diet | Herbivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Europe, temperate Asia, introduced to North America | South Island, New Zealand |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Mother of Pearl Moth
A large crambid moth with translucent pearlescent wings bearing subtle brown markings. It is one of the larger and more attractive European grass moths.
Did You Know?
Its wings have an opalescent sheen that gives the moth its poetic common name.
Mountain Stone Weta
A freeze-tolerant weta found in alpine regions of New Zealand. It shelters under rocks and can survive being frozen solid during harsh winters.
Did You Know?
It can survive temperatures as low as -10°C by allowing ice to form in its body fluids without cell damage.