Silkmoths and more: Bunaea aslauga

The Madagascan Bunaea aslauga is in many aspects similar to Bunaea alcinoe from continental Africa, with one huge difference: they are not nearly as easy to rear. In fact, I would qualify them as very difficult and definitely not suitable for newcomers. The choice of food plant may be a contributing factor to the high mortality rate. Even though the first instars accept quite many different plants like for example Ligustrum, Ilex and Hedera, they do not always develop well on these plants. To my experience they grow best on Mahonia (a surprisingly useful plant in general, accepted by many Bunaenini). But even then, a sudden collapse of the brood occurs regularly with this species. Dangerous moments are usually the (pre)molting phase from first to second and from second to third instar. Once past this point the remaining caterpillars have a good chance of staying alive. I recommend rearing these in closed plastic containers as they seem to be allergic for a low ambient air humidity. Just keep everything dry and clean. In a closed container moist can become an issue. Higher temperatures (minimum 25 degrees Celsius) are also recommended.