Tasar Silk Moth
Common NameTasar Silk Moth
Scientific NameAntheraea mylitta
FamilySaturniidae
SubfamilySaturniinae
Wingspan (mm)150
Wing Patterneyespot
Primary Colorsyellow, brown, black, green
HabitatTropical and subtropical dry deciduous and moist deciduous forests
Geographic RangeIndia, Sri Lanka, and other parts of South Asia
Host PlantsShorea robusta, Terminalia tomentosa, Terminalia arjuna
Flight PeriodJuly to November
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae feed on host plant leaves, then spin a tough, silken cocoon from which tasar silk is harvested before pupating.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its large size, overall yellowish-brown coloration, and the four prominent, circular eyespots on its wings, often with a green or bluish pupil.
Description
A large, robust moth with broad, yellowish-brown wings, each featuring prominent, multi-ringed eyespots with a green or bluish center.
