DISTRIBUTION:

Molippa kohlli (forewing length: males: 45mm; females: probably larger) flies in southern
Peru: Puno: Aquele, at elevations of 2129m.

Bernhard Wenczel indicates the moth is common at this location, and both males and females are taken at lights by Jose Boettger.

Visit Peru: Molippa Chart.

FLIGHT TIMES AND PREFERRED FOOD PLANTS:

This species has been taken in April and there may only be a single brood at the noted elevation.

Larvae will feed on willows and prunes: Salix caprea, Salix helvetica, Prunus (BW).

ECLOSION, SCENTING AND MATING:

Females extend a scent gland from the tip of their abdomens to "call" the males. Males use their antennae to hone in on the airbourne pheromone.

EGGS, LARVAE, COCOONS AND PUPAE:

Eggs are probably deposited in clusters and larvae feed gregariously. Typical of Hemileucini species, larvae have urticating spines.

Molippa kohlli, fifth instar courtesy of Bernhard Wenczel.

The species name is honourific for Steven Kohll of Kayl, Luxemburg, a good friend of Luigi Racheli. Steven is honoured for "his valuable efforts in rearing Saturniid species."

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.

Prunus Salix caprea Salix helvetica .......

Prune Goat Willow/Pussy Willow Swiss Willow

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SHILAP article, on my home computer only.