Meet the small golden moths orchid
Scientific name: Diuris basaltica
Conservation status
Australian Government status: Endangered
Victorian status: Threatened
About
The small golden moths orchid (Diuris basaltica) is found on the basalt plains west of Melbourne in just 3 locations (confidential to protect the species).
This delicate, deciduous orchid likes to live in herb-rich native grasslands dominated by kangaroo grass (Themeda triandra) on heavy soils embedded with boulders.
The orchid emerges annually, bearing 1–2 golden, nodding flowers from September–October, and sheds its leaves by late spring. It mimics nearby nectar or pollen-bearing flowers to attract its likely pollinator — the native (halictid) bee — but has no food to offer in exchange.
The 2010 National Recovery Plan for the species noted about 400 plants across the species’ 3 known wild populations, with almost all individuals occurring at a single site.
Where are they found?
In a small area on the Keilor and Werribee plains west of Melbourne, stretching from Sydenham in the north to Lara in the south.
Threats
- habitat disturbance and loss
- grazing
- weed invasion.
What are we doing?
We are working to protect the small golden moths orchid in our conservation areas and reserves.
Page last updated: 09/09/26