Product: Live Cocoons of Argema mittrei
Info: Sold individually orders of 2 or more pcs will include approx. 50% males and females
Origin: Madagascar
Host Plants: Eucalyptus, Liquidambar, Schinus, Rhus, Syzygium cumini
Hatching time: 2-5 weeks
€15,00
Out of stock
Discover one of the most spectacular insects on Earth with our live Argema mittrei cocoons, also known as the Madagascan Moon Moth or Comet Moth. Native to the tropical forests of Madagascar, Argema mittrei is widely regarded as one of the world’s most beautiful and impressive giant silk moths. With a wingspan reaching over 20 cm (8 inches) and spectacular elongated hindwing tails, this extraordinary species has fascinated entomologists, breeders, photographers, and collectors for generations.
Our Argema mittrei cocoons for sale come from carefully managed breeding stock, offering you the opportunity to witness the emergence of one of the most iconic moth species in the world. Watching an adult Argema mittrei emerge from its cocoon is an unforgettable experience and one of the highlights of insect breeding.
The Madagascan Moon Moth belongs to the family Saturniidae, which includes some of the largest moths on Earth. Adult Argema mittrei are famous for their striking yellow-green coloration, prominent eyespots, and exceptionally long tails that can measure up to 15 cm (6 inches). These tails are not merely decorative; scientific research suggests they help protect the moth from bat predation by disrupting echolocation signals.
Sexual dimorphism is clearly visible in this species. Females are generally larger and heavier, with broader wings, while males possess more elongated tails and highly developed feather-like antennae used to detect female pheromones over long distances.
Unlike butterflies, adult Argema mittrei moths do not feed. Their mouthparts are reduced, and they survive entirely on energy reserves accumulated during the caterpillar stage. Adults typically live for only 4 to 7 days, during which their sole purpose is reproduction.
Hatching Argema mittrei cocoons is relatively straightforward when proper environmental conditions are provided. After receiving your cocoons, carefully remove them from the shipping container and place them inside a well-ventilated emergence cage or mesh enclosure.
The cocoons can either be suspended vertically or placed on the floor of the enclosure. Maintaining suitable environmental conditions is essential for successful emergence:
Light misting once or twice daily is generally sufficient to maintain humidity levels. Adult moths usually emerge during the night or in the early morning hours. Once emerged, they should be allowed to fully expand and harden their wings before being disturbed.
Breeding the Madagascan Moon Moth is considered one of the most rewarding challenges in saturniid breeding. However, obtaining fertile eggs can sometimes be difficult because adults do not always mate readily under captive conditions. Many experienced breeders use hand-pairing techniques to improve breeding success.
After successful mating, females may lay between 100 and 170 eggs. Depending on temperature and humidity, eggs generally hatch within 18 to 25 days. Newly hatched larvae are small but grow rapidly when provided with fresh host plants and suitable environmental conditions.
During larval development, maintaining proper hygiene and ventilation is crucial. Overcrowding and excessive humidity without sufficient airflow can lead to bacterial or fungal problems.
One of the advantages of breeding Argema mittrei is that the caterpillars accept a variety of host plants. Confirmed food plants include:
Among these, Eucalyptus and Liquidambar are generally considered the most reliable and widely used host plants by breeders worldwide.
The larvae pass through several instars before constructing their characteristic large silken cocoons. During the final instar, caterpillars become particularly impressive due to their size and bright coloration.
Few insects can rival the beauty and elegance of the Madagascan Moon Moth. Its enormous wings, delicate tails, and fascinating life cycle have made Argema mittrei one of the most sought-after species among insect enthusiasts around the world.
Whether you are an experienced breeder, a photographer looking for extraordinary subjects, an educator, or simply a nature enthusiast, our live Argema mittrei cocoons offer a unique opportunity to observe one of the world’s most spectacular giant silk moths from cocoon to adult.
Order your Argema mittrei cocoons today and experience firsthand the remarkable transformation of the legendary Madagascan Moon Moth.
