Giant Bornean Lanternfly vs Splendid Ghost Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Giant Bornean Lanternfly Splendid Ghost Moth
Scientific Name Pyrops whiteheadi Aenetus ligniveren
Order Hemiptera Lepidoptera
Family Fulgoridae Hepialidae
Size 40-50 mm 120-160 mm wingspan
Habitat Forests Forests
Diet Sap Feeders Gall Makers
Regions Asia Australia, Oceania
Conservation Data Deficient Least Concern

Giant Bornean Lanternfly

A spectacular lanternfly from Borneo with an elongated horn-like head process and vivid coloring. The function of the snout remains debated — possibly mimicry or balance.

💡

Did You Know?

Despite being called lanternflies, these insects do not actually produce light — the myth dates to the 1600s when scientist Maria Sibylla Merian claimed they glowed.

Splendid Ghost Moth

A large, primitive moth with bright green and white patterned wings. Its larvae bore into tree trunks and live inside galleries covered with silk and frass, making them among the longest-lived Australian caterpillars.

💡

Did You Know?

Ghost moth larvae can live inside a tree trunk for up to five years, feeding on the living wood before pupating.