The Madagascan Sunset Moth: these moths are often mistaken for butterflies, thanks to their colorful, iridescent appearance
The scientific name of this species is Chrysiridia rhipheus, but it's commonly known as the Madagascan sunset moth. These gorgeous day-flying moths can be found only in Madagascar.
Above: a dorsal view of the same species
The Madagascan sunset moth has a strikingly colorful appearance, especially when its underwings are exposed, as a rainbow-like effect is produced by the iridescent scales that cover the underwings (and appear in smaller sections on the dorsal side of the wing).
Above: some of the iridescent scales on the underwings of Chrysiridia ripheus, as seen through a scanning electron microscope
The markings on the dorsal side are primarily black, with some patches of iridescent green, blue, and red. A "fringe" of white scales can also be seen along the edge of each wing; these are especially prominent on the hindwings.
Above: the dorsal patterns are visible only when the wings are left open
Like most day-flying moths, the adults of this species will often feed on nectar. Their caterpillars are known to consume Omphalea plants, which are toxic; those toxins are sequestered by the caterpillar and then retained through the pupal and adult stages of development, which means that the adult moth is toxic. Their colorful appearance is likely aposomatic, deterring predators by signaling that the moth itself is toxic.
Above: a magnified view of the white scales that outline the hindwings
Navsari Agricultural University: Sunset Moth: the most beautiful insect
Oxford University Museum of Natural History: Madagascar
Moth Identification Guide: Madagascan Sunset Moth
California Academy of Sciences: Sunset Moth
Optica: Polarization-Sensitive Color Mixing in the Wing of the Madagascan Sunset Moth
Wikipedia: Chrysiridia rhipheus
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