🔍 Tiger Moth (Larva) | Turuptiana obliqua 🪱
📍 Seen in Grecia, Alajuela, Costa Rica 🇨🇷
💬 The Turuptiana obliqua is a stunning example of tropical moth diversity, showcasing the incredible array of nocturnal lepidopterans that flutter through Central American rainforests — many species in this region are still awaiting scientific discovery and description!
🐾 Fauna Key Data
Turuptiana Moth Turuptiana obliqua | |
| // Basic ID | |
| Conservation Status | NENot Evaluated (IUCN) |
| Coloration | Mottled brown and cream forewings with distinctive oblique dark lines; pale hindwings with subtle dark borders. |
| Lifespan | Adult moths live 1-2 weeks; complete metamorphosis takes 6-8 weeks from egg to adult |
| // Size | |
| Length | 12-18 mm (body length) |
| Weight | Less than 1 g |
| Wingspan | 24-32 mm |
| // Habitat & Behavior | |
| Native Range | Central America, primarily Costa Rica and Panama |
| Habitat Type | Tropical rainforest understory, cloud forest edges, and secondary growth areas |
| Diet | Adults feed on nectar from small flowers and tree sap; larvae feed on decaying organic matter and fungi |
| Activity Pattern | Nocturnal; most active during warm, humid nights, attracted to artificial lights |
Sources: IUCN Red List · Encyclopedia of Life · GBIF · Catalogue of Life