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Atlas moth (male)

Zhao Li

Insect Museum of West China

Insect Museum of West China
Chengdu, China

This giant moth belongs to the family Saturniidae. Because of its huge size, it has high ornamental value and becomes the target of many insect enthusiasts and collectors. The maximum distance between the two wings of a female Atlas moth can reach 28cm. Its surface area can reach 300 square centimeters that no other insect can compete with it. The most distinctive feature of this species is that the pattern at the tip of their front wings is very similar to the head of a snake. The name "Atlas moth" is derived from the Greek mythology. Mosla, the famous monster in the Godzilla series, is also based on this insect. It is widely found in southern China.

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  • Title: Atlas moth (male)
  • Creator: Zhao Li
  • Type: specimen
  • Location: Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, China
Insect Museum of West China

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