Imperial Fruit Sucking Moth
Common NameImperial Fruit Sucking Moth
Scientific NameEudocima imperator
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyCalpinae
Wingspan (mm)120
Primary Colorsbrown, pink, purple, black
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, orchards
Geographic RangeSoutheast Asia, Australia (Queensland), Pacific Islands
Host PlantsTinospora smilacina, Stephania japonica
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on specific vine plants, primarily in the Menispermaceae family. Adults are known for their strong proboscis, which they use to pierce and feed on ripe fruits.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive leaf-like brown forewings and the striking flash of pink and purple on the hindwings when the moth is disturbed or in flight. Its large size is also a key indicator.
Description
A large moth characterized by its cryptic, mottled brown forewings that resemble dead leaves, contrasting sharply with its vibrant hindwings which display a broad band of bright pink or magenta bordered by dark purple or black.
