Rare Sighting in the Western Ghats
Atlas Moth Spotted in Karnataka: A rare Atlas Moth (Attacus atlas) has been recently recorded from Karwar in coastal Karnataka, underscoring the rich monsoon biodiversity of the Western Ghats. The species, native to tropical Asia, occurs across India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia, and is regarded among the world’s largest moths.
Static GK fact: The Western Ghats are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the eight hottest biodiversity hotspots in the world.
Habitat and Location
The Atlas Moth thrives in humid evergreen and semi-evergreen forests with abundant host plants. Its sighting in coastal Karnataka matches previous records from the Western Ghats belt, suggesting a stable but sporadic distribution. Such appearances typically coincide with post-monsoon months, when adults emerge and settle on tree trunks or walls to rest.
Size and Physical Features
The Attacus atlas is renowned for its massive wingspan, often measuring 25–27 cm, with exceptional individuals reaching 30 cm. The moth’s wings display a rust-brown pattern with white and black markings, and the forewing tips resemble a snake’s head, a mimicry technique used to deter predators. Females are typically larger and heavier, while males possess broad wings and feathery antennae for detecting female pheromones.
Static GK Tip: The Atlas Moth is considered one of the largest insects in the world by wing area, often compared with the Hercules Moth of Australia.
Life Cycle and Behaviour
The caterpillars of the Atlas Moth feed on leaves of citrus, guava, and cinnamon trees, accumulating nutrients for metamorphosis. They spin a papery cocoon before emerging as adults. Notably, adult moths lack functional mouthparts, meaning they do not feed and survive only one to two weeks, dedicating their brief lifespan solely to mating and reproduction.
Predation by birds, ants, and wasps is common, especially as the adults weaken after reproduction.
Conservation and Ecological Significance
Though not listed as a threatened species, the Atlas Moth faces localized threats from habitat loss, pesticide use, and light pollution. Preserving mixed native tree cover and reducing artificial lighting near forest regions can promote its survival. The recent sighting in Karnataka’s Karwar serves as a reminder of the region’s ecological richness and the importance of forest conservation.
Static GK fact: India is home to over 1,500 species of moths, playing vital roles in pollination and as bioindicators of ecosystem health.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Atlas Moth Spotted in Karnataka:
| Topic | Detail |
| Scientific name | Attacus atlas |
| Common name | Atlas Moth |
| Recorded location | Karwar, Coastal Karnataka |
| Habitat | Humid evergreen and semi-evergreen forests |
| Wingspan | 25–27 cm; rare individuals up to 30 cm |
| Distinguishing feature | Forewing tips resemble snake heads |
| Larval host plants | Citrus, guava, cinnamon |
| Adult feeding | Do not feed; rely on larval energy |
| Conservation threats | Habitat loss, pesticide drift, light pollution |
| Global distribution | India, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia |
