DISTRIBUTION: The Melanocera nereis moth (wingspan approximately 115mm) flies in Cameroon, Africa, as a rain forest species (TB). It has also been reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and from Bopoto, Congo. Thierry Bouyer indicates it has also been observed in Gabon. The genus name, Melanocera, comes from the relatively large black (melano) antennae (cera=horn) that these moths possess.

FLIGHT TIMES AND PREFERRED FOOD PLANTS:

Larval hosts are unknown, but larvae would probably accept Ochna species.

ECLOSION:

Moths emerge from pupae in subterranean chambers excavated by the larvae.

SCENTING AND MATING:

Females emit an airbourne pheromone to "call" in the males.

EGGS, LARVAE AND PUPAE:

At maturity the caterpillar will descend the hostplant stems or trunk and dig an underground chamber in which to pupate.

It is hoped that this alphabetical listing followed by the common name of the foodplant will prove useful. The list is not exhaustive. Experimenting with closely related foodplants is worthwhile.

Use your browser "Back" button to return to the previous page.

Return to Melanocera Index

Goto African Saturniidae Directory

Goto Main Saturniidae Index

The pronunciation of scientific names is troublesome for many. The "suggestion" at the top of the page is merely a suggestion.

There are many collectors from different countries whose intonations and accents would be different.

The genus name Melanocera means "waxy black" and refers to the antennae colouration of the specimen type menippe.

The species name nereis is for a sea nymph, one of the beautiful daughters of Nereus.