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Giant Geometer Moth

Giant Geometer Moth

Biston robustum

A species of Biston

Biston robustum is a species of moth belonging to the family Geometridae. This is a large moth and is known in its native range as the giant geometer moth. It is related, and generally similar, to the famous and widespread Peppered Moth. The species is found in China (Shandong, Shaanxi, Shanghai, Jiangsu, Jiangxi), Taiwan, Japan, Russia, North Korea, South Korea and Vietnam. This species has recently gained attention due to the discovery of its use of chemical mimicry to avoid predation by ants. The larva of this species, in common with many other geometrids, uses visual mimicry, strongly resembling a twig of its host plant. Recent studies have shown that it also uses chemical mimicry, storing chemicals from its food in its cuticle so that ants are largely unable to distinguish it from a twig, even after making contact with their highly sensitive antennae. Ants foraging for prey have been observed walking along the moth larvae, oblivious of their presence. Utilizing the chemicals directly from diet is advantageous as the larva will always be a chemical match to the plant it is actually feeding on (the species is highly polyphagous - see below). It has been predicted that, with further study, other species will also be shown use this form of defence.

General Info About Giant Geometer Moth
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Attributes of Giant Geometer Moth
Colors
Black
Gray
White
Habitat
Low and mid-altitude broad-leaved forest belt
Adult Food Sources
Nectar from flowers, honeydew, sap from trees, rotted fruit
Larva Food Source
Leaves of broadleaf trees, leaves of shrubs, plant foliage, angiosperm leaves
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Giant Geometer Moth
Widespread
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Distribution Area of Giant Geometer Moth
China, Japan, Russia, North Korea, South Korea, Vietnam
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Life Cycle of Giant Geometer Moth
Egg The egg of giant Geometer Moth is a tiny, often spherical or oval object, typically laid on host plants. Color varies but generally blends with the surrounding environment to protect from predators.
Larva Upon hatching, the larva or caterpillar of giant Geometer Moth emerges, characterized by its elongate body with several pairs of true and false legs. It is primarily focused on feeding and growth, and it frequently molts its exoskeleton.
Pupal The pupa of giant Geometer Moth is a non-feeding, immobile stage where the larvae undergoes transformation. Often enclosed in a cocoon, the pupa's color and shape can vary, typically being camouflaged or attached to leaves or branches.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult giant Geometer Moth's development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction.
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Predators of Giant Geometer Moth Larvae
Birds, arachnids, small mammals, rodents, wasps
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Predators of Adult Giant Geometer Moth
Bats, birds, spiders
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Scientific Classification of Giant Geometer Moth
Tips for Finding Giant Geometer Moth
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Youth Habitat of Giant Geometer Moth
Forests and Woodlands
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Adult Habitat of Giant Geometer Moth
Forests and Woodlands
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How Can You Attract Giant Geometer Moth
Entomologists may use light traps or bait traps with sweet substances like fermented fruit or sugary solutions to attract adult giant Geometer Moth.
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Habitat Preferences of Giant Geometer Moth Through Different Life Stages
The larvae of giant Geometer Moth can typically be found on the bark of trees or on the leaves they consume, often in deciduous woodlands or forested areas where they camouflage and feed. Searching for them involves inspecting the foliage of host plants. Pupae tend to reside in concealed places such as under loose bark or leaf litter, often at the base of the trees. They can be found by gently searching these potential hideouts. Adult giant Geometer Moth mostly inhabit forested regions near the larval food source, where they mate and lay eggs. To spot adults, night-time surveys with light traps are effective as they are nocturnal and attracted to light.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Giant Geometer Moth
The adult stage of giant Geometer Moth is typically most active during dusk or at night when many Lepidoptera are known to fly and seek mates or food sources.
Are Giant Geometer Moth harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Giant Geometer Moth
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Forestry Pest

The caterpillars of giant Geometer Moth are defoliators, primarily affecting broad-leaved trees. The extent of destruction varies from mild to severe, leading to defoliation which can reduce tree growth and, in massive infestations, cause tree death, potentially affecting timber production and ecosystem health.

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Hurt Plant

When giant Geometer Moth feeds, it chews the tissues of leaves, resulting in physical damage. This consumption can lead to defoliation, which impairs the plant's ability to photosynthesize. Over time, the host plants may exhibit stunted growth and reduced vigor due to this loss of foliage.

More Effects of Giant Geometer Moth

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