Pasture day moth

The pasture day moth, Apina callisto (synonym Amazelo callisto), is a species in the moth family Noctuidae which is, as its name implies, active during the day, making it unlike most other noctuid species. It is found in most southern areas of Australia, ranging from lower Queensland to Tasmania.

Pasture day moth
Pasture day moth
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Arthropoda
Class:	Insecta
Order:	Lepidoptera
Family:	Noctuidae
Genus:	Apina
Species:	A. callisto
Binomial name
Apina callisto Angas, 1847

The pasture day moth lays its eggs in pastures, and they hatch after heavy rains in early spring. When the larvae are fully grown, measuring about 60 mm (2.4 in), they burrow down before becoming pupae. They have striking coloration; two yellow stripes run down their mottled-black back, interspersed with blue spots. Their bodies are covered with white spines. They feed on various broad leaved plants (see list below).

The adult moth's wings are black with cream and chestnut markings, with a wingspan of approximately 50 mm (2.0 in). Its thorax is black and the abdomen is orange ringed with black.

Larva entering hole to become pupa