atlas moth
Asia's largest lepidopteran
The atlas moth is one of the largest moth species in the world, native to the forests of Asia.
Its wingspan can reach nearly a foot across.
The wingtips bear markings that resemble snake heads, thought to deter predators.
Named for the Titan Atlas of Greek mythology, presumably for its imposing size.
- silkFine woven insect fiber
- wingspanTip-to-tip extent
- cocoonSilk wrapping for transformation
- caterpillarMoth or butterfly young
- LepidopteraButterfly and moth order
tropical · Southeast Asia · Asia · giant · antennae · feathery · nocturnal · night flyer · camouflage · eyespots · emerald · mulberry · metamorphosis · jungle · forest canopy · humidity · fluttering · delicate