Moth and lichen association documented in Himachal Pradesh

Researchers have documented a moth using the umbilicate lichen, Lasallia pertusa, as a camouflage background, marking the first known record of this association. The observation occurred in July 2025 at 3,200 meters elevation in Himachal Pradesh's Kugti Wildlife Sanctuary.

The findings, published in Arthropod-Plant Interactions, suggest that L. pertusa's complex, perforated thallus provides a specialized visual environment for camouflage. While the moth could not be identified to the species level due to the lack of a specimen, researchers believe this interaction may hold evolutionary significance. The study expands the range of lichen growth forms recognized for supporting insect camouflage strategies.

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