In MOV 5, seven species of Nisista, (Ennominae, Nacophorini), are listed, with three of those named, serrata, galearia, and notodontaria. The others are listed as sp (1) (2) (3) and (4), the three named species and sp (2) and (4) have come to my light at various local locations. Many photos are included to show variations. The first recorded was Nisista serrata, and it has turned up on a number of occasions. Four males are shown, larvae feed on acacia foliage, and the main flight months for adults are in spring.
The Serrated Crest-moth.
Nisista sp(2) has also been recorded more than once, this male’s appearance is striking, it was photographed in October at Holey Plains State Park.
Nisista sp(4) on the other hand has so far only come to the light once, at Holey Plains State Park, it is a female. Flight months are in spring.
Nisista notodontaria flies mainly in April and May, the larvae feed on the fresh growth of a variety of native plants. The third pictured is a female.
The Annulus Crest-moth.
Nisista galearia flies at various times throughout the year with June the main month. The two pairs of short brown lines plainly seen on the wings of the moth in the first two images are part of the identifying features. The final two images show spectacular variation. All are males and were photographed once again at Holey Plains State Park.
The Winter Crest-moth.
Click to enlarge.
References and further reading,
M Hewish,
Moths of Victoria Volume Five.