Sabatinca aurantissima is a species of moth belonging to the family Micropterigidae.[2][1] This species is endemic to New Zealand and is found in the Nelson and Buller regions close to the coast and at lower altitudes. In appearance, the larvae has a distinctive pinkish-brown colour and at maturity can reach 8 mm in length. The adults are larger than many endemic species within the Sabatinca genus and have forewings that are highly reflective. These two features ensures it can be distinguished from S. aurella, a related species that is similar in appearance. The larvae feed on bryophytes.
The larvae of this species is coloured a distinctive pinkish-brown and at maturity is 8mm long.[2] Gibbs describes the adult of this species as follows:
A large golden iridescent species with five transverse fasciae on forewing; the basal two magenta, the distal three highly reflective, appearing as if convex above the wing surface.[2]
The wingspan of this moth is approximately 12 to 13mm and is larger in size than many of the other New Zealand endemic species in the Sabatinca genus.[2] This species can be confused with S. aurella but is larger in size and its forewings are more obviously reflective.[2]
Distribution
S. aurantissima is endemic to New Zealand.[1] This species has only been found in the Nelson and Buller regions relatively close to the coast and at lower altitudes.[2]
Behaviour
Mature larvae have been found during the month of May but have not been discovered during the winter months in New Zealand.[2] This has led to the hypothesis that pupation occurs during or after May.[2] Adults are more frequently seen in September.[2]
Host species and habitat
Pororari River, the type locality of this species
The larvae of S. aurantissima feed on bryophytes but the specific host plant is unknown.[3][2]
