Antipodes island lepidoptera

Abstract

The Lepidoptera of Antipodes Island are described, together with biological and ecological information on many species. Twenty‐two species are now recorded, of which 20 are believed to be breeding there. One of these is a world‐wide domestic species, while four are considered to be endemic to the island. Close faunal relationships are demonstrated with the moth fauna of Bounty, Chatham and the South Island of New Zealand. The total list of Lepidoptera for the subantarctic islands south of New Zealand is updated and discussed. The seasonality, dependence on disturbed areas and diurnal activity of the moth fauna are commented on. The status of the megaherb Senecio antipodus, defoliated by magpie moth larvae, is discussed. The presence of mice on the island, and their possible effect on invertebrates, is discussed and a recommendation made that they be eradicated. Coleoptera and Mollusca collected are listed in an appendix. © 1994 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.