Locuples Tussock Moth
Common NameLocuples Tussock Moth
Scientific NameCifuna locuples
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyLymantriinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsorange-brown, yellow-orange, white
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, woodlands
Geographic RangeSoutheast Asia (e.g., India, Sri Lanka, Indochina)
Host PlantsShorea robusta, Terminalia species, various broadleaf trees and shrubs
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, with multiple broods
Flight Stylefluttering
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis, with larvae typically being hairy (tussock caterpillars) that feed on host plants before pupating and emerging as adult moths.
Identification TipsKey features include its overall orange-brown coloration, the intricate mottled pattern on the forewings with distinct wavy whitish lines, and the prominent bipectinate (comb-like) antennae, especially noticeable in males.
Description
A medium-sized moth with a furry orange-brown body and forewings displaying a mottled pattern of darker brown lines and yellow-orange patches, bordered by wavy whitish subterminal lines. The hindwings are mostly uniform orange-brown with a pale fringe.
