Arethusa Rothschildia Moth
Common NameArethusa Rothschildia Moth
Scientific NameRothschildia arethusa
FamilySaturniidae
SubfamilySaturniinae
Wingspan (mm)115
Primary Colorsbrown, reddish-brown, tan, cream, silver
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, woodlands
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America (e.g., Mexico to Brazil)
Host PlantsGuazuma ulmifolia, Annona muricata, various Rubiaceae and Annonaceae species
Flight PeriodMultiple broods throughout the year in tropical regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants, larvae are typically green with spines or tubercles, and pupation occurs in a silken cocoon.
Identification TipsKey features include its large size, the distinctive clear (hyaline) windows on all four wings, the overall reddish-brown coloration with complex wavy bands, and the 'snake head' pattern at the forewing apex.
Description
A large, robust moth with broad, reddish-brown wings adorned with prominent, iridescent, silvery-white to pale blue triangular or crescent-shaped clear windows and intricate wavy banding in shades of brown, tan, and cream.
