DISTRIBUTION:

The Copaxa novocineracea moth (wingspan: males: 65mm; females: 78-83mm) flies in
Ecuador: Napo (Orellana), Misahualli; and in
Peru: Junin: Satipo, (750–1500m); Huacamayo; and in
Bolivia: N. Yungas: road Caranavi - Coroico; ca. 100 km NE La Paz (1000-18000m) on the eastern slopes of the Andes.

This species has long been known as C. cineracea, but apparently an examination of the males associated with true C. cineracea, whose female (below) has reduced hyaline spots and a pointed forewing apex, revealed a different/new species. I am assuming (don't know) the female true C. cineracea (BMNH) was described before the males, and that is why the new name is given. Otherwise there is perhaps an ICZN provision, giving females precedence over males in such issues. The geography for true C. cineracea is unclear.

Copaxa cineracea female (BMNH), courtesy of Ron Brechlin.

FLIGHT TIMES AND PREFERRED FOOD PLANTS:

Copaxa novocineracea larvae probably feed upon avocado in the lab.

Most of the Copaxa brood continuously so I suspect novocineracea would be on the wing every month of the year. There are records for August-December.

Copaxa novocineracea female copyright Kirby Wolfe

Copaxa novocineracea female, road from Caranavi to Coroico, N. Yungas, Bolivia,
from Entomo-Satsphingia 2 (1): 56 – 61 (März 2009), (novocineracea), courtesy of Ron Brechlin.

Copaxa novocineracea male, Peru,
from Entomo-Satsphingia 2 (1): 56 – 61 (März 2009), (novocineracea), courtesy of Ron Brechlin.

ECLOSION, SCENTING AND MATING:

Male Copaxa novocineracea moths use highly developed antennae to locate females shortly after dark by tracking the airbourne pheromone plume. The female releases this scent into the night air via an organ extended from the tip of the abdomen.

Copaxa novocineracea female, Peru,
courtesy of Eric van Schayck.

Copaxa novocineracea female, Rio Hollin, Napo, Ecuador,
September 1, 2000, 800m, courtesy of Horst Kach.

Copaxa novocineracea female (verso), Rio Hollin, Napo, Ecuador,
September 1, 2000, 800m, courtesy of Horst Kach.

EGGS, LARVAE, COCOONS AND PUPAE:

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

Persea americana.....

Avocado

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Copaxa novocineracea