metalmark moth

Description:

A very tiny (5 - 10 mm TL) metalmark moth so named from the metalic scales which create a distinct "mark" on the wings (as clearly seen in the above specimen). This group of moths occurs worldwide. It is of the family Choreutidae, and looks like Choreutis lutescens ( http://www.entu.cas.cz/png/TamtiaiBiocon... and http://www.boldsystems.org/index.php/Tax... ) but it is also very similar to Choreutis metallica ( http://www.brisbaneinsects.com/brisbane_... and http://lepidoptera.butterflyhouse.com.au... ).

Habitat:

Observed on betel vine (Piper betle) growing off a mango tree in a large semi-urban yard & garden from a disturbed remnant patch of forest in the equatorial tropics of northern New Guinea.

Notes:

The fourth image may represent a second individual in the same location at the same time.