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Fruit Piercing Moth (Eudocima phalonia)

The fruit piercing moth is a member of the family of Erebidae moths, known for being a pest of fruits in its larval, and adult form. They originated in the tropics, particularly in the continents of Africa, Australia, and Asia but have since migrated to other parts of the world.

Fruit Piercing Moth

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Scientific Classification


  • Family: Erebidae
  • Genus: Eudocima
  • Scientific Name: Eudocima phalonia

Description and Identification

Caterpillar

The larvae are purplish-brown, with red legs, scarlet spiracles, and white patches on their bodies.

Fruit Piercing Moth Caterpillar

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Pupa

Once mature, the larvae begin to pupate.

Fruit Piercing Moth Pupa

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Adult Moth

Sexual Dimorphism: Present. Females have more varied and dark reddish-brown wings.

Color and Appearance

Forewing: When the wings are opened, they are reddish-brown, with a greenish tinge and dark specks replicating a leaf. When the wings are closed, the colors are observable.

Hindwing: When the wings are opened, they are yellow or orange with a black band and two black spots on each side. When the wings are closed, the orange part remains visible.

Average wingspan: 9-11 cm in females; 8-9.4 cm in males

Flight pattern: Erratic

Season: Year-round

Eudocima phalonia

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Egg

Eggs are found close to the preferred host plant.

Quick Facts

Other NamesCommon fruit-piercing moth, Pacific fruit piercing moth
DistributionNative: Africa, Asia, and Australia Invasive: Hawaii, New Zealand, and the Society Islands
HabitatOrchards
Lifespan of AdultsNot recorded
Host PlantsVines of plants like cockspur coral tree, purple coral tree, snake vine, tiger coral tree, etc
Adult DietNectar from various fruits.

Did You Know

  • Swedish zoologist Carl Linnaeus first described this species in 1763.
Common Fruit-piercing Moth

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Pacific Fruit Piercing Moth

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Fruit Piercing Moth Picture

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