A rare Atlas Moth (Attacus atlas)—one of the world’s largest moths—has been recorded from the Karwar region of coastal Karnataka, underscoring the rich monsoon biodiversity of the Western Ghats. Native to tropical Asia, the species occurs sporadically across India, including along the humid evergreen and semi-evergreen forest belts of the Ghats.
Sighting and Location
The recent observation from coastal Karnataka fits within the Atlas Moth’s known Indian distribution. It typically inhabits moist forest zones rich in host plants. Naturalists have documented similar sightings in other Western Ghats stretches, especially during the rainy season, when adults often emerge after heavy showers and rest on tree trunks, walls, or shrubs.
Species Profile and Size
Renowned for its immense wingspan, Attacus atlas ranks among the largest lepidopterans on Earth. Females commonly span 25–27 cm, while exceptional individuals may reach 30 cm. The moth’s rust-brown wings feature bold white and black markings, and the forewing tips resemble snake heads, a mimicry adaptation thought to deter predators. Females are typically larger and heavier, whereas males appear broader-winged and more agile in flight.
Life Cycle, Feeding and Behaviour
Atlas Moth caterpillars feed voraciously on citrus, guava, cinnamon, and several other host plants, storing energy for metamorphosis inside a silken cocoon. Adults, however, have non-functional mouthparts and do not feed; they live briefly—about one to two weeks—devoted solely to mating and egg-laying. Males use their feathery antennae to detect female pheromones over long distances. Following reproduction, adults die naturally, often falling prey to birds, ants, or wasps.
Original Facts
- Atlas Moth adults do not feed; all energy is stored during the larval stage.
- Typical wingspan: 25–27 cm; exceptional individuals reach 30 cm.
- Larval host plants: Citrus, guava, cinnamon, and related trees.
- Forewing tips mimic snake heads to deter predators.
Habitat, Seasonality and Conservation Notes
The Atlas Moth thrives in warm, humid forest habitats—both coastal and montane—where dense foliage supports larval growth. The monsoon months mark peak visibility, as fresh adults emerge and remain conspicuous with wings spread. Although not globally threatened, local factors such as habitat degradation, pesticide drift, and light pollution may reduce populations. Conservationists emphasize maintaining native mixed-tree cover and minimizing artificial lighting near forest edges to help sustain healthy populations across the Western Ghats corridor.