Nephele comma
Nephele comma is a butterfly (moth ) from the family of moth ( Sphingidae ).
Features
The moths have a forewing length of 33-37 millimeters. They are solid color from yellowish green to olive green or brown. Sometimes they have reddish brown oblique lines or bars on the forewings. For forewing outer margin is a pale gray-green region by a sharp line that runs straight partially delineated. Characteristic of the type is a white comma -shaped spot at the end of Diskalzelle, but this spot is absent in the format derasa.
The caterpillars are black, green or brown, with yellow lateral lines, below those red dots at the segment boundaries. The sides are also covered with fine white dots. A pale, purple back line is formed. The spiracles are dotted white. The strong Analhorn is brown and slightly curved. The last segment extends a whitish spot from the base of Analhorns forward. The Nachschieber is light brown.
Distribution and habitat
The species is virtually found in Africa south of the Sahara everywhere. It also occurs on the islands of the Indian Ocean.
Way of life
Nephele comma flies usually at dusk, but can also be observed in the morning or in the afternoon when the sun is still shining. The caterpillars feed on wax trees ( Carissa ) and Diplorhynchus.