DISTRIBUTION:

Gamelia lojensis (wingspan: males: 61mm; females: // forewing length: males: 33-34mm; females: ? mm) flies in
Ecuador: Loja; at elevations of 2700m.

This species is similar in size to G. pyrrhomelas which flies in Colombia and northwestern Ecuador. In G. lojensis males the forewing apex is less prominent, as compared to pyrrhomelas, and the outer margin is slightly convex. Ground colour is darker.

FLIGHT TIMES AND PREFERRED FOOD PLANTS:

Specimens have been taken in February-March. There are possibly additional flight months, but high elevation may be a limiting factor due to temperatures. Gamelia lojensis larvae possibly feed on common guava (Psidium guajava) or related plants.

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.

Gamelia lojensis AT female, Loja, Ecuador,
March 1, 2011, 2700m, on my home computer only.

EGGS, LARVAE, COCOONS AND PUPAE:

Larvae resemble Automeris species with their numerous urticating body spines. Larvae are probably gregarious, at least in the early instars.

The species name, lojensis, is indicative of specimen types from Loja, Ecuador.

Larval Food Plants

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.

Psidium guajava .......

Common guava

Return to Main Index

Return to Gamelia Genus

This page is designed and maintained by Bill Oehlke as part of the World's Largest Saturniidae Site.

Use your browser "Back" button to return to the previous page.

Support this website and visit other insect sites by clicking flashing butterfly links to left or right.