Pseudobunaea alinda

 

 

Distribution:

from West Africa (Ivory Coast) to Kenya and southwards to Congo and Gabon

Wingspan:

average between 13 and 15 cm, exceptionally up to 17 cm. A lot depends on quality of the food and the rearing conditions.

Season:

in captivity more or less continuously, however the pupal stage can take a few months (especially during winter). 

Food plants:

Ligustrum ovalifolium, Prunus laurocerasus

Rearing:

Not difficult, some experience is required though. Keep warm (minimum room temperature or warmer), dry and clean. Rear in spacious, well ventilated plastic containers, especially during winter months when the central heating dries out the air.  Avoid condensation and do not give wet leaves, but keep the ambient air humidity medium to high. Ready to pupate within 8 to 9 weeks (depending on temperature and quality of the food, faster during warmer months). Even though they brood continuously in captivity, the pupal stage can be several weeks or even 2 or 3 months. The moths need a few weeks of warmer and more humid weather to emerge (a night temperature of around 20°C seems to do the trick). 

Difficulties:

usually not difficult, but rearing during winter months can be significantly more complicated