Argyrophenga antipodum is one of three closely related and very similar-looking species in the genus Argyrophenga. All three are associated with tussock grasslands, which provide food for their caterpillars and shelter for adults. The latter can escape strong winds and other adverse weather by taking refuge among the tightly packed leaves at the base of tussocks. When resting with their wings closed, the butterflies are well camouflaged among the tussocks, whose leaves vary in colour and brightness depending on their condition and exposure to sunlight. The contrasting pattern on the underside of the wings helps the butterflies blend into this complex background. A. janitae and A. harrisi are predominantly montane species, typically found above the treeline. A. antipodum occurs mainly at lower elevations but is also found in mountainous areas. It occupies a wider range of grassland habitats, presumably because its caterpillars can feed on a greater variety of tussock grasses.
