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Antheraea formosana

Antheraea formosana

Antheraea formosana

A species of Tussar moths

Native to broadleaf forests, antheraea formosana thrives as a master of disguise during its larval stage, mimicking lush green leaves to evade predation. As an adult, it boasts opulent wings with eyespots that are believed to deter potential predators through mimicry. It prefers to feed on the leaves of certain trees during its caterpillar phase, while the adults, having no functional mouthparts, do not eat at all, dedicating their brief life span to reproduction.

General Info About Antheraea formosana
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Attributes of Antheraea formosana
Colors
Brown
Black
Gray
Orange
Habitat
Low to mid-altitude mountain
Larva Food Source
Leaves of sweetgum (liquidambar formosana), arbutus, oaks (quercus spp.), willows (salix spp.), maples (acer spp.)
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Vestigial
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Species Status of Antheraea formosana
Occasionally
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Predators of Antheraea formosana Larvae
Birds, rodents, parasitic wasps, parasitic flies
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Predators of Adult Antheraea formosana
Bats, birds, rodents
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Interesting Facts About Antheraea formosana
Antheraea formosana can avoid echolocation detection by bats, a primary predator, by using its hindwing tails that confuse sonar readings.
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Scientific Classification of Antheraea formosana
Tips for Finding Antheraea formosana
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Youth Habitat of Antheraea formosana
Forests and Woodlands
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Habitat Preferences of Antheraea formosana Through Different Life Stages
The larvae of antheraea formosana are commonly found on their host plants, such as oak, cherry, and willow trees, where they feed on the leaves. These trees are usually located in subtropical forested areas, particularly in Asia. As for the pupae, they can be found in cocoons attached to twigs or bark, or sometimes on the forest floor amidst the leaf litter. Searching for the larvae would involve inspecting the undersides of leaves on the host plants, while looking for pupae would require careful examination of the lower branches and ground debris in the habitats where these trees grow. Adults tend to be elusive and are typically found flying around well after dusk in these same forested environments.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Antheraea formosana
The suitable time to find adult antheraea formosana would be around dusk or at night when they are most active and are likely to be drawn to light sources. For larvae, observing during the day on host plants is more feasible.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Antheraea formosana
Weather conditions should be warm and humid, as antheraea formosana tends to be more active and easier to spot during such conditions. It's also ideal to look for them after rain, as this may trigger the adults to emerge or increase larval feeding activity.
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How and Where Can You Find Antheraea formosana at Different Life Stages
Egg Antheraea formosana eggs are small and laid in clusters on the underside of host plant leaves. To locate them, carefully examine the foliage of known host plants in the area.
Larva Antheraea formosana larvae, also known as caterpillars, are likely found munching on the leaves of their host plants. Search for chewed leaves or droppings (frass) under the host plants to find them.
Pupal Antheraea formosana pupae may be found in cocoons attached to twigs or in a layer of leaves on the ground. They can be located by gently searching the litter at the base of host plants or inspecting branches.
Adult Antheraea formosana adults are moths that can be drawn to light at night. Setting up a light trap with a white sheet can be an effective and safe method to observe or collect them.
Are Antheraea formosana harmful?
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