03 July 2018

Atlas moth

Atlas moths are one of the largest lepidopterans in the world with a wingspan measuring between 25–30 cm (9.8–11.8 in) and a wing surface area of about 400 cm2 (62 in2). It is only surpassed in wingspan by the white witch (Thysania agrippina) and in wing surface area by the Hercules moth (Coscinocera hercules).

Their habitat is primarily dry rainforests, secondary forests, and shrublands across South Asia, East Asia, and Southeast Asia, including the Malay Archipelago.

The adults lack fully formed mouthparts and cannot eat, subsisting entirely on fat reserves accumulated during the larval stage. As a result, they live for only a few days during which their sole objective is seeking out a mate.

2 comments:

  1. Hi,
    I'm making a small donation to my local Devon Wildlife Trust tomorrow and I've just decided to double it as an indirect thank-you for your love of butterflies/moths and for keeping me entertained over the years.

    thanks another phil

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I applaud the idea of making donations locally whenever possible, rather than to national organizations or NGOs.

      Delete

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