DISTRIBUTION:

The Copaxa copaxoides moth (wingspan: males: 85-90mm; females: 105mm) flies at elevations of 800m in Mexico: Guerrero, Morelos, Chiapas and probably Oaxaca.

This small species has a forewing apex that is round and not at all produced. Basic ground colour is dull gray or reddish brown.

Copaxa copaxoides, female, wingspan: 105mm, courtesy of Kelly Price.

FLIGHT TIMES AND PREFERRED FOOD PLANTS:

Kirby Wolfe has reared this species on Persea americana, Avocado, which may or may not be a natural host.

Most of the Copaxa brood continuously so I suspect copaxoides would be on the wing every month of the year.

ECLOSION, SCENTING AND MATING:

Male Copaxa copaxoides moths use highly developed antennae to locate females shortly after dark by tracking the airbourne pheromone plume. The female releases this scent into the night air via an organ extended from the tip of the abdomen.

Copaxa copaxoides male courtesy of Manuel Balcazar-Lara

EGGS, LARVAE, COCOONS AND PUPAE:

Copaxa copaxoides larva (copyright protected) courtesy of 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.

Persea americana.....

Avocado

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