Tamerlan Silkmoth
Common NameTamerlan Silkmoth
Scientific NameTitaea tamerlan
FamilySaturniidae
SubfamilyCeratocampinae
Wingspan (mm)135
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, dark brown
HabitatTropical and subtropical lowland rainforests
Geographic RangeCentral and South America (Mexico to Bolivia, including parts of Brazil)
Host PlantsFicus, Cecropia, various broadleaf trees and shrubs
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, with activity peaks varying by local climate
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: egg, larva, pupa, adult. Larvae are typically spiny or horned, feeding on broadleaf trees and shrubs, and pupate in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its large size, cryptic mottled brown and tan coloration, wavy wing margins, and the specific pattern of dark bands and small white/black spots on the forewings. The somewhat pointed hindwing tails are also characteristic.
Description
A large, robust moth with broad, wavy-edged wings predominantly mottled brown and tan, providing excellent camouflage. The forewings feature an irregular dark band and small white and black spots near the costa, while the hindwings have a darker band and subtle green-tinged spots.
