A small Eurasian moth, Parapoynx stratiotata (family Crambidae or Pyralidae), which has a small dark ring in the centre of the pale forewing, and larvae that feed underwater on aquatic plants.
Origin
Early 19th century; earliest use found in George Samouelle (d. 1846).
Definition of ringed china-mark in US English:
ringed china-mark
noun
A small Eurasian moth, Parapoynx stratiotata (family Crambidae or Pyralidae), which has a small dark ring in the centre of the pale forewing, and larvae that feed underwater on aquatic plants.
Origin
Early 19th century; earliest use found in George Samouelle (d. 1846).