This is an enormous Case Moth from tropical Queensland. The caterpillar covers its case with many small twigs, all attached approximately parallel to the axis of the case. The case can grow to a length of up to 30 cms.

The caterpillar itself is black with yellow stripes. The caterpillar has been found feeding on various MYRTACEAE, including :

Golden Penda ( Xanthostemon chrysanthus ).

(Specimen: courtesy of the The Australian Museum)

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(updated 30 October 2007)