Banyan tussock moth
Perina nuda
Male moths have unique transparent sections on their forewings, a rare trait that helps them blend into the dappled light of the forest canopy.
- Scientific name
- Perina nuda
- Taxonomy
- Animalia › Arthropoda › Insecta › Lepidoptera › Erebidae › Perina
- IUCN Red List status
- Least Concern
- Population trend
- stable
- Biome
- forest
- Habitat
- Tropical forests, parks, and urban environments containing Ficus trees.
- Diet
- Larvae feed on Ficus leaves (Banyan, Peepal); adults have reduced mouthparts and typically do not feed.
- Range
- India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Southern China, Taiwan, Vietnam
- Size
- Wingspan of 35-50mm; larvae grow up to 40mm.
- Lifespan
- 7-14 days as an adult; 6-8 weeks for a full lifecycle.
- Active
- nocturnal
- Threats
- Habitat fragmentation and heavy pesticide use in urban landscaping.
- Safe to approach?
- Larvae possess urticating hairs that cause painful skin irritation and rashes. Avoid touching caterpillars or cocoons. If contact occurs, remove hairs with adhesive tape and wash with soap and water; seek medical help for allergic reactions.
The Clearwing tussock moth , ( Perina nuda ), also known as Banyan tussock moth , is a moth of the Erebidae family. It is found in Indian sub-region, Sri Lanka, to southern China Hong Kong, Thailand and Sundaland.
Photo: Aparna Shyam, CC-BY, via iNaturalist
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