Madagascan Moon Moth
Common NameMadagascan Moon Moth
Scientific NameArgema mittrei
FamilySaturniidae
SubfamilySaturniinae
Wingspan (mm)180
Primary Colorsyellow, brown, red
HabitatTropical rainforests
Geographic RangeMadagascar
Host PlantsWeinmannia, Uapaca, Eugenia, Sclerocarya
Flight PeriodAdults emerge after rainy season (short-lived)
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are green and feed on specific host plants. They pupate in a silken cocoon. Adults are short-lived, typically lasting 4-7 days, and do not feed.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its immense size, brilliant yellow coloration, four distinct eyespots, and extremely long, ribbon-like tails on the hindwings, which can reach up to 15 cm.
Description
A spectacularly large, bright yellow moth with prominent reddish-brown eyespots on all four wings and exceptionally long, reddish-brown tails trailing from the hindwings.
