DISTRIBUTION:

The small Molippa larensis moth (wingspan: males: 49mm; females: probably larger) flies in dry areas of
northwestern Venezuela: Lara.

FLIGHT TIMES AND PREFERRED FOOD PLANTS:

This species is on the wing in June, and is possibly univoltine due to semi-arid conditions of habitat.

Larvae and their hosts are unknown.

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.

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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