Planthopper Strepsipteran vs Ear Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Planthopper Strepsipteran Ear Moth
Scientific Name Halictophagus australensis Amphipoea oculea
Order Strepsiptera Lepidoptera
Family Halictophagidae Noctuidae
Size 1.0-2.0 mm (males) 24-32 mm wingspan
Habitat Wetlands Wetlands
Diet Parasites Herbivores
Regions Oceania Europe
Conservation Not Evaluated Least Concern

Planthopper Strepsipteran

An Australian strepsipteran parasite of delphacid planthoppers. It alters the host's reproductive development and morphology.

💡

Did You Know?

Parasitized planthoppers develop intersex characteristics, with males growing female-like features and vice versa.

Ear Moth

A small brown moth whose larvae bore inside grass and rush stems. Very variable in appearance. Part of a species complex requiring dissection for certain identification.

💡

Did You Know?

Named for its ear-shaped wing stigma, though the marking is so variable it's often hard to see.