Attacus atlas - female
"Atlas Moth"
Family: Saturniidae
The Atlas Moth is the largest moth in the world with a wingspan of approximately 20 cm (8 inches). These moths live in the Oriental tropics in habitats ranging from lowland to upper mountain forests. One can identify this moth by its immense size, wing patterns, and cocoon. The moth's wing patterns consist of large triangular eyespots and strongly curved tips of the forewings, especially in males. The Atlas moth's wings are almost ruby red making this moth a prized collection piece for insect connoisseurs. The eggs of this moth require 8-14 days to hatch depending upon temperature. The caterpillars are bluish green, with shades of pink on the posterior. The larvae are polyphagus, feeding on many different plants, and often wander from one plant to the other looking for food. Adult moths do not feed and so only live a short time. During this time, the moths undergo the reproductive process. Females give off a strong pheromone (chemical) scent that is capable of being detected by the sensitive antennae of the male who may be several kilometers away. Once together, the male and female mate, after which the female lays up to several hundred eggs. Both adults then die a few hours later.
Martin Williams
Jack Taylor
Jason Bray
Mindy West
Entomology 301 - Fall 2000
