Sturiosoma aureum is the only species in the genus Sturiosoma, and it was first described by Arthur Sidney Olliff in 1889. The moth has a wingspan of around 10–12 cm, with the females typically slightly larger than the males. The upper side of the wings is a vibrant gold colour, with iridescent blue and green reflections. The underside of the wings is a paler gold, with a series of dark brown spots and a distinctive orange-brown band along the outer edge.
Sturiosoma aureum is found in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, grasslands, and heathlands. It is most active during the day, and can often be seen flying in open areas or basking in the sun. The moth feeds on the nectar of various flowers, including wattles, eucalypts, and hakeas.
Sturiosoma aureum is a relatively short-lived moth, with adults typically surviving for only a few weeks. The females lay their eggs on the stems or leaves of food plants, and the larvae develop within the plant tissue. The larvae are white, with a dark brown head and a series of dark brown stripes along the body. They feed on the plant tissue, and pupate in a cocoon within the plant.
The golden sun moth is a popular species among collectors, and it is also valued by beekeepers as a potential pollinator. The moth is listed as near threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), due to its restricted distribution and the clearing of its habitat.