An 'Atlas Moth' (Attacus atlas), recognised as the world's largest moth, has been recently discovered in Guddehalli in Karwar of Karnataka's Davangare district.

About Atlas Moth
The Atlas Moth (Attacus atlas) is one of the world's largest and most remarkable moths, known for its massive size and striking wing patterns.
Key Characteristics and Size

• Size: It is among the largest insects on Earth. Its wingspan can reach up to 24–27 centimeters (9.4–10.6 inches), and it has a vast wing surface area, rivaled only by a few other moths.
• Appearance: Its wings are a beautiful mix of reddish-brown, orange, white, pink, and purple, featuring distinctive triangular, clear, scale-less windows on all four wings.
• Mimicry: The tips of its forewings have a prominent extension that closely resembles the head of a snake , which acts as a defense mechanism to deter predators.
• Lifespan: The adult moth has a very short life, typically lasting only 1 to 2 weeks (14–18 days).

Life Cycle and Diet

• Adult Diet: Adult Atlas Moths do not have fully formed mouthparts (a vestigial proboscis) and therefore cannot eat or drink. They must rely solely on the fat reserves accumulated during their larval (caterpillar) stage. Their only purpose as adults is to mate and reproduce.
• Caterpillar Stage: The caterpillar is large (up to 12 cm long) and voracious, spending its time eating to build up the necessary energy reserves for the entire adult life.
• Cocoons: The caterpillars pupate by spinning a large, papery cocoon interwoven with dried leaves, which they attach to a twig.
• Reproduction: Females release powerful pheromones to attract a mate, which males can detect from several kilometers away using their large, feathery antennae.

Distribution and Silk

• Habitat: The Atlas Moth is native to the tropical and subtropical rainforests of Southeast Asia. Its range includes regions of Nepal, India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, southeastern China, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Taiwan, and Malaysia.
• Silk: It is occasionally cultivated in non-commercial capacities for its silk, known as fagara silk. This silk is secreted in broken strands, making it less desirable than the continuous thread from the domestic silkworm (Bombyx mori), but it is known for its wool-like texture and greater durability. The cocoons are sometimes repurposed as small purses.

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