Sphecodina
Preparation of Sphecodina abbottii
Sphecodina is a genus of butterflies of the family of moth ( Sphingidae ).
Features
The moths are easily distinguishable from those of other genera. The hind wings have a broad, well- demarcated yellowish band, which occupies the entire front edge and extends to the Analwinkel on the inner edge. The abdomen is flattened and bears at least four pairs of scales tufts on the sides.
The caterpillars have an elongated body that is slightly flattened. There are two color options, both of which are well camouflaged in the tendrils of the food plants of the family grapevine family ( Vitaceae ).
Occurrence and life
Sphecodina caudata occurs in the eastern Palaearctic, Sphecodina abbottii is widespread in eastern North America. The moths are diurnal.
System
Worldwide, two species of the genus are known:
- Sphecodina abbottii ( Swainson, 1821)
- Sphecodina caudata ( Bremer & Grey, 1853)