page_title: Gonimbrasia belina
section_title: Predators
hierarchical_section_title: Gonimbrasia belina / Predators
caption_attribution_description: Setswana: Matlhare a setlhare sa Mophane a a omeletseng
context_page_description: Gonimbrasia belina is a species of emperor moth which is native to the warmer parts of southern Africa. Its large edible caterpillar, known as the madora or mopane worm or amacimbi, masontja, feeds primarily but not exclusively on mopane tree leaves. Mopane worms are an important source of protein for millions in the region. The species was first described by John O. Westwood in 1849.
context_section_description: Like many animals lower down on the food chain, the mopane worms and their eggs often fall prey to various predators as well as disease. Often, more than 40% of a mopane worm's eggs will be attacked by various parasites, and the caterpillars themselves are susceptible to infection from a virus that has a high mortality rate. The worms' main predators are various birds and humans, which rely on the caterpillars for sustenance.
caption: Dried mopane leaves
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