Fig-tree Moth
Common NameFig-tree Moth
Scientific NameAsota ficus
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyAganainae
Wingspan (mm)58
Primary Colorsorange, brown, black, white
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, orchards, cultivated areas with host plants
Geographic RangeTropical and subtropical Asia (e.g., India, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia), parts of Australia
Host PlantsFicus spp. (fig trees), Artocarpus spp. (jackfruit), Streblus asper
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical climates
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically hairy and feed gregariously on the leaves of host plants, particularly Ficus species. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, often in leaf litter or soil.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive combination of a bright orange and black head/thorax with uniformly light brown, longitudinally veined forewings and small white marginal spots. The moth's association with fig trees is also a strong indicator.
Description
A medium-sized moth characterized by its bright orange head and thorax adorned with black spots, contrasting sharply with its plain light brown forewings that display prominent longitudinal veins. Small white spots are present along the outer margin of the forewings.
