Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Lepidoptera
Family: Saturniidae
Genus: Attacus
Species: Attacus atlas
Atlas moths (Attacus atlas) are not only are they the largest moths on Earth, but they also boast remarkable features that make them stand out in the world of lepidoptera. The most striking feature of Atlas moths is their incredible size, making them an object of fascination for entomologists and nature enthusiasts, with wingspans that can reach up to 27 centimetres (10 inches) or even more with females typically being larger than males, these moths are often referred to as the "world's largest moths.”
Atlas moths have a distinct and beautiful appearance. Their wings are a rich reddish-brown colour, often adorned with intricate patterns and eye-catching markings. The edges of their wings may have wavy lines and distinct spots, creating a visually appealing display. What truly sets them apart, however, are the translucent, window-like patches on their wings. These patches, located on the tips of the forewings, give the moth an ethereal quality.
Atlas moths are primarily found in the tropical and subtropical regions of Asia. Their habitat extends from India through Southeast Asia and into parts of Indonesia. These moths are well adapted to the warm and humid climates of these areas. They are often found occupying forest and rainforest terrestrial biomes.
One of the most unique characteristics of Atlas moths is their short-lived adult life. Atlas moths have a 1-2 week lifespan on average and similar other moths, undergo a complete metamorphosis. Their life cycle consists of four main stages: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (cocoon), and adult moth. Adult female Atlas moths lay their eggs on the leaves of host plants, such as the aromatic cinnamon or castor plants. The caterpillars are voracious eaters and can grow quite large. They have a greenish appearance with spiky, hair-like structures and yellowish bands. When the caterpillar reaches maturity, it spins a cocoon. Inside this cocoon, it undergoes a remarkable transformation, turning into a pupa. The cocoon is often brown and papery in texture. After a few weeks, the adult moth emerges from the cocoon, fully developed and ready to take flight. The adult Atlas moth's primary purpose is to reproduce, although they have a relatively short lifespan. The cacoons of these magnificent creatures are sometimes used as small pocket change purses within. Taiwan, with their silk having the potential to become an alternative for common silks.
One other unique feature of the adult Atlas moth is that they do not have functional mouthparts, which means they cannot eat as adults. They rely solely on the energy stored during their caterpillar stage, which lasts for about two weeks. During this time, their main goal is to find a mate and reproduce. Atlas moth caterpillar’s are herbivores (folivore) with a diet of leaves, which can be led to them being seen as pests if feasting on crops.
According to the IUCN Red List criteria the atlas moth’s conservation status is endangered (EN). However, this could be revised and set to vulnerable (VU). If you ever have the opportunity to encounter one of these magnificent creatures in the wild, it's an experience you won't soon forget. The Atlas moth is a reminder of the incredible diversity of life on our planet, and a testament to the beauty of the insect world.
Photo taken by Ella Munro at the National Botanic Garden of Wales Butterfly House
Wow never heard of these before now, that’s huge! 🦋