Gemella Lappet Moth
Common NameGemella Lappet Moth
Scientific NameMetanastria gemella
FamilyLasiocampidae
SubfamilyLasiocampinae
Wingspan (mm)65
Primary Colorsbrown, dark brown, white, yellow
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, woodlands, plantations
Geographic RangeSoutheast Asia (e.g., India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia)
Host PlantsShorea robusta, Mangifera indica, Hevea brasiliensis, Acacia spp., Eucalyptus spp., Camellia sinensis
Flight PeriodMultiple broods throughout the year in tropical regions
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy and polyphagous, feeding on various trees and shrubs. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon.
Identification TipsLook for the robust, hairy body and the distinctive dark, pale-outlined reniform spot on the reddish-brown forewings. Often rests with wings folded tent-like over the body, resembling a dead leaf.
Description
A robust, medium-to-large moth with a hairy body and reddish-brown to dark brown forewings. The forewings feature a prominent dark, kidney-shaped spot outlined in white or pale grey, and a faint yellowish postmedial line.
