Pasiphila urticae

Pasiphila urticae is a moth of the family Geometridae. This species was first described in 1939 by George Hudson. It is endemic to New Zealand and is found on both the North and South Islands. The larvae of this species feed on new leaves of Urtica ferox. Larvae of P. urticae are well camouflaged and behave sluggishly. They pupate underground with the adults being observed commonly in November.

Taxonomy

This species was first described in 1939 by George Hudson and originally named Chloroclystis urticae. In 1971 John S. Dugdale placed this species in the genus Pasiphila. The male lectotype, bred by Hudson in South Karori from larva taken on nettle, is held at the Te Papa.

Description

Hudson described the adults of this species as follows:
Hudson explains that these differences would not normally be significant enough to require specific separation but that the larvae of the two species, Pasiphila urticae and Pasiphila paralodes are so distinct that he was of the opinion this was required.
Hudson went on to described the larvae of P. urticae as follows:
Hudson explained that black bristles on the larvae of P. urticae are diagnostic as there are no black bristles on the larvae of P. paralodes.

Distribution

This species is endemic to New Zealand and is found on both the North and South Islands.

Habitat and hosts

The larvae feed on the new leaves of Urtica ferox.

Behaviour

Hudson described the larvae as being sluggish and well camouflaged. P. urticae pupates underground with the pupa being enclosed in a cocoon created out of silk and soil. Pupa can be found at approximately inch below the surface. Adults most commonly observed are on the wing in November.