DISTRIBUTION: Syssphinx parocellata
(wingspan: males: 76mm; females: mm // forewing length: males: 36-38mm; females: probably larger) flies in
Bolivia: Chuquisaca, 1600m.
This moth is very similar to S. ocellata which also flies in Chuquisaca and is about the same size. Probably DNA analysis is
necessary for a conclusion determination. Both species are also very similar to S. lapazcellata from LaPaz, although parocellata
seems to have a lighter, brighter, orange median field.
FLIGHT TIMES AND PREFERRED FOOD PLANTS: Moths are on the wing in December and probably in other months.
Anticipated natural hosts are Acacia, Mimosa and Leucaena.
ECLOSION, SCENTING AND MATING:These moths come in to lights so it is expected that scenting and mating also take place after dark.
EGGS, LARVAE AND PUPAE:Eggs are probably green and translucent and are probably deposited in short rows of four to eight on
foliage or stems. Caterpillar development can be seen through the eggshell. Larvae are gregarious in early instars and have enlarged
thoracic scoli with metalic markings that reflect light on the abdominal scoli. The natural conditions of a hot, humid environment should be used to rear larvae.
It is hoped that this alphabetical listing followed by the common name of the anticipated foodplant will prove useful.
The list is not exhaustive. Experimenting with closely related foodplants is worthwhile.
Acacia angustissima........
Acacia baileyana
Leucanaea pulverulenta
Robinia pseudoacacia
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Prairie acacia
Bailey's acacia
Giant leadtree
Black locust/false acacia
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The pronunciation of scientific names is
troublesome for many. The "suggestion" at the top of the page is
merely a suggestion. It is based on commonly
accepted English pronunciation of Greek names and/or some
fairly well accepted "rules" for latinized scientific names.
The suggested pronunciations, on this page and on other pages,
are primarily put forward to assist those who hear with internal
ears as they read.
There are many collectors from different countries whose
intonations and accents would be different.
The genus name "Syssphinx" was probably chosen for the similarity of these moths (wing shape and resting position) to moths in
the Sphingidae family.
The species name "parocellata" is indicative of a great similarity with S. ocellata.
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