African Moon Moths (Argema mimosae) are another classic butterfly farm species. These large moths have a striking green or yellow base colour, with intricate eye markings and splendid tails on the hindwings. Cocoons are very easy to hatch out, simply requiring a daily misting, though patience is sometimes required as they can remain in this stage for several weeks! Caterpillars of this species are some of the most spectacular I’ve seen of any Lepidopteran, almost resembling jelly sweets. Like the moths, caterpillars are either bright green or yellow in colour. The caterpillars enjoy some additional warmth, although this is probably not necessary in the summer, but this is not necessary for cocoons which are very tough and resilient. If you have not reared these before, I highly recommend trying them just to see the caterpillars!
Host plants: Eucalyptus, Sweetgum, Smokebush, Euphorbia
Difficulty: Caterpillars are moderately challenging to rear (5/10); Cocoons are very easy to hatch (1/10)
Temperature: Room temp. or warmer
Lifecycle: continually brooded; cocoons can go dormant
