Mothra might not be real (sigh), but nature has certainly done its best to create some true behe-moths. While the Atlas moth often steals the spotlight, another heavyweight contender looms in the distance. Is it a small bird? A fluffy little alien? Nope – it’s the giant wood moth (Endoxyla cinereus), the undisputed heaviest moth on the planet.
A True Giant Among Insects
The giant wood moth may not be kaiju-sized, but in the insect world, it’s a certified behemoth. Female Endoxyla cinereus can have an impressive wingspan of up to 23 centimeters (9 inches) and weigh as much as 30 grams (1.1 ounces) – about the same weight as a standard AA battery!
Males, on the other hand, are much smaller, about half the size of the females, proving that in the animal kingdom, bigger isn’t always a male trait.
Not The Best Flyers
Carrying all that weight comes with its drawbacks, and for the giant wood moth, flying isn’t exactly a strong suit.
“They fly very, very poorly,” Dr. Christine Lambkin, former Curator of Entomology at Queensland Museum, shared with ABC News. “In most cases, when they emerge, the females just crawl up a tree or a fence post and wait for the males to find them.”
Where Can You Find The Giant Wood Moth?
If you’re curious about where to spot one (or where to avoid them, depending on your stance on giant insects), head to Australia. These moths are primarily found in Queensland and New South Wales.
However, seeing an adult Endoxyla cinereus is rare. They spend the majority of their three to four-year lifespan as larvae, commonly known as witchetty grubs, burrowed deep within trees.
“They stay like that for two or three years, with a central bore right in the middle of the tree,” said Ted Edwards, honorary fellow at the Australian National Insect Collection. “Just before they turn into a pupa, they cut out a circle of bark and build defenses against ants and other insects.”
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A Brief Adult Life
Once they finally emerge as adults, female giant wood moths have a fleeting existence. Unlike their larval stage, which can last years, adult moths only live for a few days.
“They don’t eat or drink,” explained Dr. Lambkin. “They emerge, they mate, they lay eggs, and then they die.”
Short-lived but undeniably spectacular, the giant wood moth (Endoxyla cinereus) is a true marvel of the insect world. 🐛
ref : iflscience
