Comet Moth (Argema mittrei)

Description

The wings of the comet moths are vibrant in red and yellow with intricate patterns that help them camouflage during the day. The species exhibits sexual dimorphism, with the females having more rounded wings. The males have long, feathery antennas for sensing the locations of the females, which have thin antennas. With the males having a wingspan of 7.9 inches (20 cm) and a tail span of 5.9 inches (15 cm), the species is one of the world’s biggest silk moths.   

Distribution: Madagascar.

Habitat: Rainforests                                                                 

Do They Bite/Sting: No.

Lifespan: 4-5 days.

Predators: Bats.

Behavior and Characteristics

Diet

The caterpillars aggressively eat the leaves of eucalyptus plants found in their native range. They may also feed on plants in the Weinmannia and Eugenia genera. They also prefer plants like Weinmannia eriocampa, Sclerocarya caffra, and Uapaca species. If these are unavailable, they may eat Rhus cotinus, and Pistacia terebinthus.

Defense Mechanism

The wings of the moths have large eyespots that give the impression of a big, dangerous animal that its predators might fear to attack. Plus, the comet moth can absorb ultrasound that presents a dampened echo to bats (that use echolocation for foraging), rendering it invisible to its predator. Other defensive methods used by it are aposematism, crypsis, or mimicry. Its long, bright, red, and yellow tail is also used for defense.

Life Cycle

1. Egg Stage

The female lays 100-150 eggs.

2. Larva Stage

The larva or caterpillar spins a natural silk cocoon. This stage lasts for around two months.

3. Pupa Stage

The pupa is housed in a grayish-white cocoon resembling a sac with a small, rough opening at one end. Drainage holes in the cocoon allow rainwater to escape, saving the pupa from drowning.

4. Adult Stage

Lacking a mouth and gut, the adult cannot feed. Its only purpose is to mate in its short lifespan.

Comparison with Similar Species

Luna Moth

The Luna moth (Actias luna) looks similar to the Madagascan moon moth as both have long, extended tail wings and four round eyespots. But the Luna moth is green while the comet moth is yellow.