Teak Defoliator
Common NameTeak Defoliator
Scientific NameHyblaea puera
FamilyHyblaeidae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, orange, black
HabitatTropical forests, teak plantations, deciduous forests
Geographic RangeSouth and Southeast Asia, parts of Africa
Host PlantsTectona grandis (Teak), Gmelina arborea, Lagerstroemia spp.
Flight PeriodYear-round (multiple generations), with peak outbreaks during monsoon seasons
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are caterpillars that are significant defoliators of teak and other forest trees, often causing widespread damage during outbreaks.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its cryptic grey-brown forewings and the sudden flash of bright orange hindwings with a black margin when disturbed or in flight. The resting posture typically shows the forewings covering the hindwings.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled grey-brown forewings providing camouflage, and striking bright orange hindwings with a black band, often visible when at rest or in flight.
