African Moon Moth
Common NameAfrican Moon Moth
Scientific NameArgema mimosae
FamilySaturniidae
SubfamilySaturniinae
Wingspan (mm)120
Primary Colorspale green, brown, yellow
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, woodlands
Geographic RangeSub-Saharan Africa
Host PlantsSclerocarya caffra, Commiphora, Spirostachys africana, Marula
Flight PeriodVaries by region, generally during warmer months (e.g., November to March in Southern Africa)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe lifecycle includes eggs laid on host plants, spiny green caterpillars that feed on leaves, a pupal stage within a cocoon, and short-lived adult moths that do not feed.
Identification TipsLook for its impressive size, vibrant pale green wings, distinctive circular eyespots on both forewings and hindwings, and the very long, twisting tails extending from the hindwings.
Description
A large, stunning pale green moth characterized by prominent brown and yellow eyespots on all four wings and exceptionally long, ribbon-like tails on its hindwings.
