Giant Atlas Moth
by Jenny Rainbow
Title
Giant Atlas Moth
Artist
Jenny Rainbow
Medium
Photograph - Photography
Description
Giant Atlas Moth, one of the largest in the world.
Most commonly found in Southeast Asia, the moth is so named because its wing patterns are said to resemble maps. The moth's wing tips also appear to resemble a snake's head, which may be a tactic to scare off predators.
Female Atlas moths are much bigger than males and attract mates by secreting irresistible pheromones through the end of their abdomens.
The males sniff these out with a long, feathery antennae.
The moths lay their eggs underneath leaves. Bluish green caterpillars, covered in a white powder, then hatch a week or two later and start eating.
Their favourite meals include the Jamaican cherry tree, lime and citrus fruits. The creepy crawlies then encase themselves in a silken cocoon. The pupal stage lasts for around a month.
Male adults don't have a mouth and survive from fat reserves built up from their caterpillar stage. They quickly mate and die shortly afterwards.
The Atlas moth has a wingspan of 30cm and is so named because its markings appear like a map.
Despite its great size the Atlas moth will only live for one week.
Uploaded
June 13th, 2013
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