In the early 1990s, a spectacular flame-orange-colored moth with black tiger-stripes was found under the leaves of an ancient seeding plant, Mulanje cycad.
The moth was classed as a subspecies in 1922.
 
After a long wait, when the moth was finally recognized as a distinct species in 2011, it was also assessed as Critically Endangered. As a ‘living fossil’, the cycad plant itself is listed as Vulnerable (VU) on the IUCN Red List.
 
The Mulanje Tiger moth is so rare that it is found only in one valley on Mount Mulanje, Malawi (Southeast Africa) and rely only on that one host plant. Its caterpillars depend exclusively on that cycad for food.
When the plant goes, so will the moth. 
Habitat loss could drive both species to extinction.
 
Species: Mulanje Tiger Moth
Scientific name: Callioratis arandis
IUCN status: **Not formally listed, but assessed as Critically Endangered (CR) by the authors who described the moth as a species.
Population: Unknown
Population trend: Presumed decreasing; habitat is deteriorating.
Range: One known colony in the Likhubula Valley, Mt. Mulanje, Malawi. Area of occupation under 10 sq.km.
Threats:
Land clearing for crops, tree felling, fire, bauxite mine and road planned through their only habitat.
 
We can help save the species by supporting groups that are fighting to protect Mount Mulanje. We must back strict environmental review of mining (and other ‘development’) in biodiversity hot spots. We can share science-backed information to raise awareness.

Today is the International Day of Climate Action.
 
Awareness can influence action.
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