DISTRIBUTION:

The Automeris dandemon moth (wingspan: males: 53mm; females: probably larger) flies in
Mexico: Morelos and Veracruz.

Lemaire indicates that A. dandemon is very close to A. melmon, but that dandemon lacks the pink hairs on the abdomen. A. dandemon also has a more rounded apex, a more convex outer margin, and vestigial (at best) am lines and submarginal bands on the forewing.

Based on Lemaire's description, the three males on this page from BOLD Systems are more likely A. melmon.

Automeris dandemon, (probably melmon), male, Mexico, BOLD Systems.

FLIGHT TIMES AND PREFERRED FOOD PLANTS:

Moths are on the wing in July and August.

Automeris dandemon, (probably melmon), male, Mexico, BOLD Systems.

ECLOSION, SCENTING AND MATING:

Males use their more highly developed antennae to seek out females who release an airbourne pheromone into the night sky.

EGGS, LARVAE, COCOONS, AND PUPAE:

Eggs are deposited in clusters of 6-40+ on hostplant twigs. Larvae have urticating spines and are gregarious, especially in the early instars.

Larval Food Plants

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.

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