Attacini

Attacini

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Attacini: //ˌætəˈkaɪnaɪ//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Callosamia securifera 184750964 by Lillie. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.
Callosamia securifera 208804118 by Lauren McLaurin. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.
Callosamia promethea eggs and 1st instar by Jacy Lucier. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Callosamia promethea male by Skye McDavid. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.
Saturnia2Westwood1853 by John Obadiah Westwood (22 December 1805 – 2 January 1893). Used under a Public domain license.
Callosamia promethea by wikipedia. Used under a Copyrighted free use license.

Summary

The Attacini tribe, part of the Saturniinae subfamily, consists of several genera and is known for its large, vividly patterned moths commonly referred to as emperor moths. They are notable for their impressive wing patterns and are significant in ecological and economic contexts.

Physical Characteristics

Medium to very large moths with adult wingspans ranging from 7.5 to 15 cm or more. They are characterized by the eyespots on the upper surface of their wings, which can exhibit realistic eye-like markings or adapted forms such as crescent moon shapes.

Identification Tips

Look for distinctive eyespots on the wings and large size. Males exhibit sexual dimorphism and are typically smaller than females, who can weigh almost double.

Habitat

Found in various habitats, typically in regions with suitable foliage for larval development.

Distribution

Primarily recorded North of Mexico.

Diet

Adults do not eat during their short lives; their mouths are not fully formed. Larvae feed on a variety of host plants.

Life Cycle

The life cycle includes egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages. The larval stage lasts about 78 days, going through five instars.

Reproduction

Females lay oblong eggs in clusters flat against each other.

Ecosystem Role

Important for pollination and as a food source for various predators in their ecosystems.

Economic Impact

Source of wild silk and human food in various cultures; significant economic implications in sericulture.

Cultural Significance

Known as emperor moths or wild silk moths; status in cultural practices related to silk production.

Collecting Methods

  • Light traps
  • Netting adults at night

Preservation Methods

  • Pinning
  • Drying
  • Refrigeration

Similar Taxa

Tags

  • saturniidae
  • giant silkmoths
  • emperor moths
  • wild silk moths