Giant Carpenter Moth
Common NameGiant Carpenter Moth
Scientific NameXyleutes persona
FamilyCossidae
SubfamilyZeuzerinae
Wingspan (mm)130
Primary Colorsblack, white, brown, grey
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, plantations, orchards
Geographic RangeSoutheast Asia (e.g., India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines)
Host PlantsTectona grandis (teak), Shorea robusta, Bombax ceiba, Acacia mangium, Eucalyptus spp., Hevea brasiliensis (rubber), Mangifera indica (mango), Durio zibethinus (durian), Swietenia macrophylla (mahogany)
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical climates, nocturnal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are large wood-borers, spending an extended period (potentially multiple years) tunneling within the trunks and branches of various host trees, causing significant damage. Pupation occurs inside these larval tunnels.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its impressive size, robust build, and the unique white reticulated pattern on a dark background, particularly the prominent central cross-like mark on the forewings. The large white thoracic patch is also a key identifier.
Description
A very large, robust moth with a dark head and thorax, featuring a prominent white or pale grey patch on the thorax. Its forewings are dark brown to black, intricately patterned with white or pale grey reticulations that often form a distinctive cross-like or T-shaped mark down the center.
