A Guide to Australian Moths. 2007. illus. 214 p. gr8vo. Paper bd.

Introduces the biology, behaviour and environmental importance and describes the 82 families of moths found in Australia. Particular emphasis is given to the most commonly observed or eye-catching species. Curious facts about the more unusual aspects of moth biology are featured. These include details on day-flying species, camouflage, moths that mimic wasps, larvae with stinging hairs, aquatic groups with larvae that possess gills, the iconic wichetty grubs and bogong moths, the giant tailed Hercules moths of northern Queensland (one of the largest moths in the world, with a wingspan of over 25 cm), moths that release hydrocyanic acid in their defense, even moths that produce ultrasound calls that bats learn to associate with a bad taste. Emphasises the environmental role of moths, their relationships with other plants and animals and their importance to humans while providing a fascinating introduction to the wide range of moths found in Australia.