DISTRIBUTION:

In the U.S., Agapema galbina (wingspan: 58-78 mm) is probably extinct, formerly found only in southern Texas. The moth still flies in Tamaulipas, Mexico. Lemaire reports it from Chihuahua.

This moth is synonomous with Agapema solita.

These images are from Brownsville, Texas area, where the species is now extinct, but it has recently been found in Nuevo Leon, Mexico.

FLIGHT TIMES AND PREFERRED FOOD PLANTS:

This single brooded species flies from early September to late October.

Larvae feed in groups on Bluewood, Condalia hookeri.

ECLOSION, SCENTING AND MATING:

Males of this species have more white in the basal area of both the fore and hindwings compared to the much larger and darker females and to other Agapema species. Moths emerge in the morning and mate around 9:30 pm.

EGGS, LARVAE, COCOONS AND PUPAE:

Eggs are deposited in large clusters on host plants and larvae emerge within fourteen days of deposition. Gregarious larvae (50-55mm at maturity) feed in large groups which become progressively smaller as larvae develop.

Cocoons are indistinguishable from anona and are coarsely woven among the host plant branches.

Larva copyright Kirby Wolfe

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.

Celtis Chloroleucon ebano Condalia ericoides Condalia hookeri Condalia spathulata Larrea Ligustrum Prunus Prunus serotina Ribes Sarcobatus vermiculatus......

Hackberry Texas ebony Javelin bush Bluewood Knifeleaf Condalia/Squaw-bush Chapparrel Privet Wild cherry Wild blackcherry Gooseberry/currant Black greasewood

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