What is another name for a sphinx moth?

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The sphinx moth goes by a few different common names. Some of the most well-known alternate names for sphinx moths include hawk moths, hummingbird moths, and hornworms. Sphinx moths belong to the Sphingidae family of moths, which includes over 1,450 species worldwide. These swift-flying moths are characterized by their distinct narrow wings and the ability of some species to hover in place while feeding on nectar from flowers, much like hummingbirds. The larvae of sphinx moths are known as hornworms due to the horn-like structure on their posterior end.

Physical Appearance

Sphinx moths are medium to large in size, with wingspans ranging from 1-6 inches depending on the species. They have long, narrow forewings and shorter hindwings. Their bodies are robust and hairy. Coloration varies widely, from drab brown to vivid greens, pinks, and yellows. Some species have striking eyespots on their wings. The fat, green larvae are covered in small horn-like projections, hence their common name of hornworms. At the end of their abdomens they have a distinct horn which shrinks when they pupate into adult moths.

Habits and Behavior

Sphinx moths are most active at dusk and night as they search for nectar sources. During the day they generally rest hidden among vegetation. Some species like the hummingbird sphinx moth have adapted to be active during daylight hours. The larvae feed on leaves of plants, including agricultural crops and garden plants. Common host plants are in the nightshade, lily, rose, and tobacco families. After pupating underground, the adult moths emerge in 1-3 weeks. They live for about a month during which time mating and laying eggs occurs. The eggs hatch into larvae in 3-10 days to start the cycle again.

Hovering Ability

A unique feature of some sphinx moths is their ability to hover while feeding on flower nectar. Their wings beat extremely fast, allowing them to stay suspended in place like hummingbirds. The white-lined sphinx moth is a common example in North America. Other species like the hummingbird hawk-moth in Europe, Asia, and Africa also demonstrate this hovering behavior. Their suspension in air while unfurling their long proboscises into flowers gives them the appearance of tiny hummingbirds, hence their alternate common name.

Range and Habitat

Sphinx moths are found on every continent except Antarctica. They occupy diverse habitats including tropical and temperate forests, grasslands, deserts, and human settlements. Any environment that provides nectar sources from flowers is suitable. The larvae feed on many agricultural crops and ornamental plants, sometimes becoming pests if populations explode. Common host plants like tomato, tobacco, grapes, elm, and rosebay willowherb are targeted. The viburnum sphinx moth specializes on viburnum shrubs.

Species Examples

There are over 200 sphinx moth species in North America alone. Some of the most widespread and recognizable include:

– Tobacco hornworm moth (Manduca sexta) – large green larvae eat tobacco and tomato plants. Adults are dull brown with pink patches on hindwings.

– Tomato hornworm moth (Manduca quinquemaculata) – bright green larvae damage tomatoes and other solanaceous crops. Adults gray with black, white, and orange markings.

– Pandorus sphinx moth (Eumorpha pandorus) – large moth found across southern US. Caterpillars feed on grape vines. Adults have pink and olive green stripes.

– Hummingbird moth (Macroglossum stellatarum) – Old World species known for hovering while feeding. Brown with blurred stripes on wings.

– White-lined sphinx moth (Hyles lineata) – common across North America. Larvae called tomato hornworms. Adults hover at flowers.

– Elm sphinx (Ceratomia amyntor) – pale green larvae feed on elm, basswood, cherry. Adults brown with white bands on wings.

Significance to Humans

Sphinx moths impact human activities both negatively and positively:

– Larvae damage crops like tobacco, tomatoes, grapes, and turf grass when population spikes occur. This can cause economic losses for farmers.

– Adults pollinate flowers of many native plants and some crops like orchids. Their nectar-feeding assists pollination.

– Larvae provide food for birds and other wildlife when their populations remain in balance.

– Some sphinx moths are sought by collectors due to their striking colors and patterns. Rare species are prized.

– Their interaction with flowers and hovering behavior provides interest for nature watchers and photographers.

– Research on sphinx moths continues to provide insight into plant-insect interactions, pollination, mimicry, and many biological processes.

Mimicry

Some sphinx moths display defensive mimicry with features that resemble dangerous creatures. Many sphinx moth caterpillars have eyespots that make them appear like snakes to potential predators. The frightening appearance provides protection. Some adult moths mimic wasps or bees, with bold yellow and black banding on their bodies and wings. This mimicry advertises the fact that they can sting or bite, preventing predation even though moths cannot sting.

Reproduction and Life Cycle

Sphinx moths undergo complete metamorphosis with four life stages:

Egg – Females lay round, smooth eggs individually or in small groups on host plants. Eggs hatch in 3-10 days.

Larva (caterpillar/hornworm) – Larvae feed on plant leaves for 2-4 weeks while growing and molting through 5-6 instars. Mature larvae are 2-7 inches long.

Pupa (chrysalis) – Larvae burrow into soil and pupate underground for 1-3 weeks.

Adult moth – Adults emerge to mate and lay eggs, living for about a month. They feed on nectar from flowers.

The full life cycle takes anywhere from 45 days to a year depending on species and climate conditions. There may be multiple generations per year. Overwintering occurs in the larval or pupal stage.

Distinguishing Sphinx Moth Features

– Narrow, triangular forewings and shorter hindwings

– Stout, hairy bodies adapted for hovering flight

– Coiled proboscis for reaching nectar in deep flowers

– Bright colors and patterns, some with mimicry

– Ability to hover suspended in air while feeding

– Caterpillars have horn-like tail spine and eye spots on abdomen

– Pupation underground in soil or leaf litter

– Active at dusk/night; some species fly during the day

Conclusion

In summary, sphinx moths are a diverse and fascinating group of insects with some species displaying incredible adaptations like hovering flight. Their larvae can be agricultural pests but also provide food for wildlife. The adults are important pollinators of many night-blooming flowers. Sphinx moths can go by common names like hawk moths, hummingbird moths, and hornworms. Their unique characteristics and behaviors make them popular with insect enthusiasts around the world. Understanding their life history and role in nature remains an area of ongoing research and discovery.