Hantsmoths

The genus Tachystola is endemic to Australia. T. acroxantha has been known in the UK since 1908; the present species was originally identified from a specimen taken in a light trap on 7th July 2021 in Ealing, London, and recognised to be different due to its hyaline (near transparent) hindwings. DNA and morphological analysis, detailed in Sterling, Plant et al in Ent Rec J Var 135: 225-241, identified it as a new species, one that certainly originated from Australia but source currently unknown. Subsequent to the initial discovery, many other specimens have been discovered in the Ealing area. Forewing: 6 to 8.5mm. Likely to be a leaf litter feeder similar to T. acroxantha, and if so, this is a good candidate for the transport mechanism (potentially with tree ferns) into the country.