T-shirt Argema mittrei

Argema mittrei, also known as the Comet Moth, is a large species of silk moth that is native to the forests of Madagascar. They are known for their striking appearance, with long tails on their hind wings and bright colors on their wings and body. The Comet Moth is also known for being one of the largest silk moths in the world.

The habitat of Argema mittrei is primarily the rainforests and tropical forests of Madagascar, where they live in the canopy layer of the trees. They are nocturnal and are most active at night, when they fly around in search of mates. Comet Moths do not feed as adults, and their sole purpose is to mate and lay eggs.

The larvae of Argema mittrei feed on the leaves of specific trees, primarily the Ravenala madagascariensis, which is also known as the Traveler's Palm. The larvae spin cocoons and pupate, and the adult moths emerge after several weeks. The Comet Moth has a relatively short lifespan, typically living for only a few days to a week.

The Comet Moth is considered to be a rare species and is protected by law in Madagascar. Their habitat is threatened by deforestation and habitat destruction, which puts their survival at risk.

Want to learn more?
The Comet Moth - Butterfly Conservation: https://butterfly-conservation.org/butterflies/the-comet-moth

Argema mittrei - Animal Diversity Web: https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Argema_mittrei/

Argema mittrei - The Silk Moth Project: http://www.silkmoths.org/pages/argema-mittrei.shtml

Argema mittrei - Encyclopedia of Life: https://eol.org/pages/977697/details