African Moon Moth (Argema mimosae) – Complete Care Guide

The African Moon Moth (Argema mimosae), also known as the African Comet Moth, is one of the most spectacular giant silk moths available to breeders and butterfly houses. Native to eastern and southern Africa, this species is valued for its large size, long-tailed adults, and resilient lifecycle. With correct care, Argema mimosae is straightforward to rear and breed in captivity.

Eggs

  • Eggs hatch in 14 days or less
  • Keep them in closed airtight plastic containers
  • Avoid moisture buildup, this can cause mould to grow

Caterpillar care

The larvae of Argema mimosae are hardy and visually striking, changing colour dramatically as they grow.

Larval colour stages:

  1. First instar: Red and black
  2. Second instar: Solid red
  3. Third instar onward: Bright green until pupation

Rearing tips:

  • Early instars do best in plastic containers to retain humidity
  • Later instars (4th & 5th) should be moved to mesh enclosures
  • Provide ventilation for mature larvae
  • Light misting allows caterpillars to drink water droplets

Larvae

This photograph shows fourth (centre) and third (bottom right) instar larvae feeding on Sweetgum (Liquidambar)

Host Plants

Choosing the correct host plant is essential.

Best summer host plants:

  • Sweetgum (Liquidambar)
  • Smokebush (Cotinus)
  • Staghorn Sumac (Rhus typhina)

Best winter host plant:

  • Eucalyptus (excellent year-round alternative)

Always provide fresh, pesticide-free foliage.

Pupation

  • Caterpillars spin a very hard, oval cocoon
  • Pupation occurs attached to branches or enclosure sides
  • Cocoons may remain dormant for extended periods if conditions are cool or dry

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Life cycle & Seasonality

  • Continually brooded in captivity when kept warm and humid
  • In the wild, emergence is highly seasonal, during the wet season
  • Peak flight times: October and January, suggesting two natural broods

Adult moths

This pair of Argema mimosae clearly demonstrates the more angular wings of the male (L) compared to the rounded wings possessed by the female (R). This allows the males to be more aerodynamic when flying as they attempt to locate females, which typically only fly once mated to deposit their eggs.

Adult Moths & Breeding

Adult Argema mimosae moths pair readily, but breeding success depends heavily on timing.

  • Males and females need to emerge within a few days of each other for their life cycles to align
  • Emergence can be sporadic, so multiple cocoons increase success
  • Females lay eggs shortly after pairing (around 200)
  • Adults do not feed and live only a short time