DISTRIBUTION:

The Copaxa wolfei moth flies in Peru: Junin: Calabaza, 2000m; Pasco: La Suiza, 2180m; Cusco: San Pedro, 1800m; and possibly Huanuco at elevations of 1800m or above.

FLIGHT TIMES AND PREFERRED FOOD PLANTS:

Specimens have been taken in March, May and July, suggesting two or more broods. Copaxa wolfei larvae probably feed upon Avacado (Persea americana).

Copaxa wolfei male, courtesy of Bernhard Wenczel.

Copaxa wolfei HT male, Calabaza, Junin, Peru,
May, 2000m, courtesy of Bernhard Wenczel.

Copaxa wolfei HT male (verso), Calabaza, Junin, Peru,
May, 2000m, courtesy of Bernhard Wenczel.

ECLOSION, SCENTING AND MATING:

Male Copaxa wolfei use highly developed antennae to locate by tracking the airbourne pheromone plume.

Copaxa wolfei female courtesy of Eric van Schayck,
identification as wolfei by Ron Brechlin, July 2012.

The female releases this scent into the air via an organ extended from the tip of the abdomen.

EGGS, LARVAE, COCOONS AND PUPAE:

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.

Persea americana.....

Avocado

The species name, "wolfei", is honourific for Kirby Wolfe.

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