InsectNet forum

I am planning to make a high quality "wall display" for a pair of Brahmaea wallichii insulata, but the pair I have came with very little data, and I cannot seem to confirm that this data may be legitimate despite much internet searching. Since this display will be relatively "permanent", I'm hoping someone can confirm that these moths are actually native to Sumatra (no search showed them from there), as this is the only information that came with them, aside from a date of 2003. I'd also like to know where in Sumatra they are found, and what time of year as well. Otherwise, they could have possibly just been reared there from imported eggs or pupae. If that is the case, then the locality of Sumatra doesn't mean much to me! I've had these for nearly two decades, so contacting the seller isn't an option, as I'm not even certain who I purchased them from.

Also, I have read that they feed upon Fraxinus japonica, Ligustrum ibota, Ligustrum japonicum, Osmanthus asiaticus, and O. ilicifolius. However, if possible I would like to know which of these plants would be native to their natural habitat. The food plant, along with the caterpillar, will be illustrated by hand drawn images in the display.

Any information on this subspecies will be greatly appreciated!

Here is a photo of the pair. The female has a wingspan, in the spread position, of 151mm.

Hello Panacamthus !

I cannot comment on the species at hand but, it is a welcome sight to see you posting once again a fabulous picture of something from your collection.

Your pictures are always fabulous and your specimens are always impeccable examples !

Look forward to any other specimens you might be able to post sometime....

Many thanks.