World’s Largest Moth ‘Atlas Moth’ Spotted in Karnataka’s Davangere District

The Atlas Moth (Attacus atlas), recognized as the world’s largest moth, has been discovered in Guddehalli, Karwar, located in Karnataka’s Davangere district.

Key Highlights:

• About the Species:
  • Belongs to the Lepidoptera order and is often mistaken for a butterfly due to its massive size and striking appearance.
  • The wingspan of the Atlas Moth can reach up to 24 centimetres, making it one of the largest lepidopterans globally.
  • It is typically found in coastal and mountain forests.
• Unique Biological Features:
  • The Atlas Moth lacks a mouth and a digestive system, making it incapable of feeding during its adult stage.
  • The female moth lays eggs on specific host trees, and the larvae feed voraciously on the leaves, storing energy for the moth’s entire lifespan.
  • The adult moth survives solely on stored energy from its larval stage.
• Lifecycle and Survival:
  • The male moth dies immediately after mating, while the female dies shortly after laying eggs.
  • Their short adult lifespan is devoted primarily to reproduction.
• Significance:
  The sighting of the Atlas Moth in Karnataka underscores the rich biodiversity of the region and highlights the importance of conservation efforts for rare and ecologically significant species.

Source: ETV