About Doratifera vulnerans (Lewin, 1805)
Doratifera vulnerans (Lewin, 1805), a species of cup moth in the family Limacodidae, has the common names mottled cup moth, Australian cup moth, and Chinese Junk (the latter name referring to its caterpillar). This species was first described by John Lewin in 1805, and it is the type species of the genus Doratifera. It is found in Australia. The species is known for the unique stinging spines or hairs on its caterpillars that hold toxins, which is reflected in its scientific name, meaning "bearer of gifts of wounds". A 2021 chemical and genetic analysis found that the caterpillar contains 151 toxins, and some of these toxins have medicinal properties. In its life cycle, adult D. vulnerans lay eggs in clusters on leaves, and cover the eggs with their own body hairs. Eggs are most commonly found on Eucalyptus leaves, but females may sometimes also lay eggs on other trees including guava and apricot. After eggs hatch, larvae feed on tree leaves. They grow for approximately two weeks, then form cocoons that remain hanging on trees for an additional two weeks. These cocoons have circular lids that emerging moths can easily push open to exit.
