This is Megacraspedus faunierensis, a moth that lives in the Alps, and one of 44 new species described for the first time, in a paper in the journal Zookeys.
As many as 22 of the species were found in Europe – a remarkable result, given how intensively the continent has been studied.
“The scale of newly discovered moths in one of the Earth’s most studied regions is both sensational and completely unexpected,” say authors Peter Huemer from the Tyrolean State Museum in Austria and Ole Karsholt from the University of Copenhagen in Denmark.
Originally published by Cosmos as A new moth
Cosmos
Curated content from the editorial staff at Cosmos Magazine.
Read science facts, not fiction...
There’s never been a more important time to explain the facts, cherish evidence-based knowledge and to showcase the latest scientific, technological and engineering breakthroughs. Cosmos is published by The Royal Institution of Australia, a charity dedicated to connecting people with the world of science. Financial contributions, however big or small, help us provide access to trusted science information at a time when the world needs it most. Please support us by making a donation or purchasing a subscription today.