Moonseed Fruitpiercer
Common NameMoonseed Fruitpiercer
Scientific NameEudocima apta
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyCalpinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Primary Colorsdark brown, grayish-brown, white, orange, black
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, orchards
Geographic RangeSoutheast Asia, Australia, Pacific Islands
Host PlantsTinospora smilacina
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical climates
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on Moonseed vines (Menispermaceae). Adults are nocturnal and pierce ripe fruit with their strong proboscis for feeding.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its cryptic resting posture, resembling a piece of bark, with dark brown forewings bordered by an irregular pale margin. Reddish eyes are also a key feature.
Description
A medium-to-large moth with cryptic, dark brown forewings featuring an irregular pale border, and a fuzzy grayish-brown body with reddish eyes. Its hindwings are bright orange with black markings.
