Malagasy Processionary Moth vs Rainbow Leaf Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Malagasy Processionary Moth Rainbow Leaf Beetle
Scientific Name Anaphe madagascariensis Chrysolina fastuosa
Order Lepidoptera Coleoptera
Family Notodontidae Chrysomelidae
Size 40-55 mm wingspan 5-7 mm
Habitat Forests Rivers & Streams
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
Regions Madagascar Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Malagasy Processionary Moth

A pale silky white moth whose caterpillars march in long head-to-tail processions through the forest. The larvae are covered in irritating urticating hairs.

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Did You Know?

The caterpillars spin communal silk nests and march in lines of dozens of individuals, each following silk trails laid by the leader.

Rainbow Leaf Beetle

A metallic multicolored beetle with iridescent green, blue, and purple stripes.

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Did You Know?

Its rainbow coloration is produced by thin-film interference in its cuticle.