Witchetty Moth and grubs

Witchetty Moths (Endoxyla leucomochla), a type of large cossid wood moth, produce a fat, white caterpillar or grub (larval stage). The grub eats into the woody roots of the Witchetty bush (Acacia kempeana), feeding on the root sap until it reaches a length of about 7 cm. Aboriginal women and children dig around the roots of the plant to find the Witchetty grubs, which are a rich source of protein. After pupating, the adult moth emerges from its undergound home, leaving behind its protective skin. The adult Witchetty Moth has a wingspan of about 16 cm and lacks any functional feeding organs. It will live for only a few days on its fat reserves before breeding and then dying.