Genus Deidamia

Clemens, 1859

Etymology

Deidamia: In Greek mythology, Deidamia was the lover of Achilles, mother of Neoptolemus, and daughter of King Lycomedes.

Pronunciation

dee-uh-DAY-mee-uh

Overview

Actias is a genus of silk moths in the family Saturniidae. Sometimes called “moon moths,” there are over 40 described species worldwide, but only one (Actias luna) occurs in North America. The characteristics that are common to the genus include the long “tails” on their hindwings and the “moon spots” on both sets of wings.

Photo Credit

Image courtesy of Nancy Padan.