Fauna
Insect · GBIF taxon 1954344

Emerald Pug Moth

Pasiphila muscosata

Also known as Emerald Pug

Emerald pug moths are cryptically colored geometrid moths native to New Zealand, blending seamlessly against mossy bark and lichen-covered tree trunks where they roost during the day. While famous for their vivid moss-green coloration, adults exhibit remarkable variation, ranging from deep emerald tones to warm orange-yellow hues. Caterpillars feed primarily on native pohuehue vines before spinning loose cocoons on the forest floor to pupate.

NocturnalCamouflagedEndemic
Emerald Pug Moth reference1 / 7
Licensed reference(c) Landcare Research New Zealand Ltd., some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Not EvaluatedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNot Evaluated — not placed on the risk ladderRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & prey
  • Large-leaved pohuehue
  • Creeping pohuehue
  • Floral nectar
Predators
  • Fantail
  • Insectivorous bats
  • German wasp
ThreatsHabitat clearance, introduced predatory wasps, and pest mammals
HabitatsNative forests, scrubland, and bush margins across New Zealand
Life span9–12 months across all life stages
Classification
  1. FamilyGeometridae
  2. SpeciesPasiphila muscosata
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
  • Night Observation: Set up an ultraviolet light trap near native bush to attract flying adults after dusk.
  • Daytime Searching: Inspect mossy tree trunks and sheltered foliage for roosting individuals displaying daytime camouflage.
Related species
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