Moths of
the Amazon and Andes
Spectre
Xenosoma giganteum
DRUCE, 1895
Family - ARCTIIDAE
subfamily -
PERICOPINAE
Tribe -
introduction
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habitats |
lifecycle |
adult behaviour
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Xenosoma giganteum, Manu cloudforest, 1400m, Peru |
Introduction
This moth has very distinctive venation which appears to be a near perfect match
for the specimen of Xenosoma giganteum illustrated
as a watercolour painting in Biologia Centrali Americana. The wingspan is circa
6cms.
Habitats
Cloudforest, elevation
1400m.
Lifecycle
If my determination of this species is correct then it is likely that the early
stages will be similar to those of other Arctiidae. Typically the ova are laid
in batches, and the larvae are hairy and feed on lichens or low growing
herbaceous plants. The pupae of Arctiidae are normally formed within a flimsy
cocoon comprised of matted larval hair and little or no silk.
Adult behaviour
Attracted to fluorescent light in early evening.
Arctiid moths are equipped with organs in the thorax which are
used to produce sounds that have been demonstrated to deter bat
attacks.
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