Plain Tiger vs Cactoblastis Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Plain Tiger | Cactoblastis Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Danaus chrysippus | Cactoblastis cactorum |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Nymphalidae | Pyralidae |
| Size | Wingspan 70-80mm | 27-35 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Heathland | Deserts & Drylands |
| Diet | Herbivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | Africa, Asia, Oceania | Australia, Oceania |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Plain Tiger
An orange butterfly with black borders and white spots that is extremely widespread across Africa and Asia. It is toxic due to larval food plants.
Did You Know?
It is mimicked by multiple species of butterflies across its range including females of the Great Eggfly.
Cactoblastis Moth
Originally from South America, this moth was introduced to Australia in 1926 as a biological control agent against invasive prickly pear cactus. It is celebrated as one of the most successful biocontrol programmes in history.
Did You Know?
A memorial hall was built in Boonarga, Queensland, in honour of this moth for saving millions of hectares of farmland.