Velvet Tussock Moth
Common NameVelvet Tussock Moth
Scientific NamePhocoderma velutina
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyLymantriinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsdark brown, reddish-brown
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests
Geographic RangeSoutheast Asia (e.g., India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia)
Host PlantsUnknown, likely polyphagous on various trees and shrubs
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical climates, possibly seasonal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically hairy, often with tufts (tussocks), and can cause skin irritation. Pupation occurs in a cocoon often incorporating larval hairs.
Identification TipsLook for its uniform dark velvety brown coloration, robust hairy body, and the subtle, wavy transverse lines on the forewings, especially within its Southeast Asian range.
Description
A medium-sized, robust moth with a velvety dark reddish-brown to blackish-brown body and wings. The forewings feature subtle, wavy darker transverse lines and a slightly iridescent sheen, while the hindwings are uniformly dark.
