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Amazonian Butterflies

Attacus atlas- The Big Butterfly

The atlas moth (Attacus atlas) is a species of lepidopteran in the Saturniidae family. It is the largest representative of the family and the largest moth in the world taking into account the total area of ​​its wings (more than 400 cm2) The wingspan is also within the largest, from 25 to 30 cm. The female specimens are larger and stronger. . Its scientific name derives from the name of the titan Atlas of Greek mythology. In Hong Kong, in the Cantonese language, its common name translates as “snakehead butterfly”, in reference to the tips of its wings that resemble the head of a cobra.

It lives in the tropical forests of Southeast Asia, southern China, through the Malay archipelago to Indonesia. In India, atlas moths are raised by silk in noncommercial proportions. Unlike the silk produced by the silkworm (Bombyx mori), the silk of the caterpillar of the atlas butterfly is secreted in non-continuous threads. This silk (called “fagara”) of brown color and similar to the wool is appreciated for its great durability. In Taiwan, the chrysalises of the moth atlas are used to make portfolios. During the time of the Porfiriato were brought to Veracruz the healers used it burned to remove back pain


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