What anatomical feature gives the comet moth its descriptive common name?
Answer
The extraordinary, elongated extensions trailing from its hindwings
The common name is derived directly from the visual effect created by the substantial, ribbon-like tails trailing nearly 20 cm when the moth flies, resembling a celestial comet.
Related Questions
What anatomical feature gives the comet moth its descriptive common name?What is the typical maximum wingspan reached by the comet moth?What is the primary reason for the comet moth's very brief adult lifespan?To which scientific genus does the comet moth belong?Where is the comet moth endemic to?What is the hypothesized secondary function of the comet moth's long tails, besides sexual display?What is the likely evolutionary purpose behind the extreme development of the comet moth's tails?What does the specific epithet *mittrei* typically commemorate?What is the maximum reported length of the comet moth's trailing appendages?What requirement for successful captive breeding highlights the adult moth's dependency on its earlier life stage?