Which moth is commonly called the Madagascan moon moth?

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The moth commonly called the Madagascan moon moth is Argema mittrei.

Argema mittrei is a large saturniid moth endemic to Madagascar. It is also called the comet moth because its hindwings end in long, sweeping tails. The vivid yellow-and-green adult has prominent eyespots and is among Madagascar’s best-known insects.

Like other giant silk moths, the adult has a greatly reduced or absent feeding function. Its adult life is focused mainly on reproduction, with energy accumulated during the caterpillar stage. The larvae feed on leaves before forming a cocoon.

Argema mittrei is often confused with the North American luna moth, Actias luna, because both have long-tailed wings and “moon moth” in their common names. They are different species on different continents, and their similar appearance reflects related saturniid biology rather than identity.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Sept. 2026

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