Ambrasia

Ambrasia is a genus of moths in the family Saturniidae, subfamily Saturniinae. The genus includes several large, nocturnal moths with robust bodies and broad wings; patterns range from plain to striking, and many species exhibit eye-like markings. The genus has undergone taxonomic revisions, and several species originally described in Ambrasia have been moved to related genera such as Gonimbrasia and others within Saturniinae. The geographic range is primarily sub-Saharan Africa, with some species recorded from Madagascar and nearby regions.

Biology and ecology: Like other Saturniidae, Ambrasia species undergo complete metamorphosis. Eggs hatch into caterpillars that feed on a variety of broadleaf plants; larval host plants vary by species and can include trees common to their ranges. After several larval instars, they form silken cocoons in which they pupate. Adults emerge with functional wings but often have reduced or nonfunctional mouthparts, living only briefly to mate and disperse.

Economic and cultural significance: Moths in this group are of interest to collectors for their size and patterns. In Africa, the larval stage of certain related species has long been harvested for food; the mopane worm, a well-known example, is the caterpillar of Gonimbrasia belina and has historically been associated with Ambrasia in older classifications, illustrating past taxonomic ambiguity in the group.

Conservation: Information on the conservation status of Ambrasia species is limited and varies by species. Habitat loss, climate change, and harvesting pressures can impact local populations, underscoring the need for species-specific studies.