Syssphinx molina

 

 

Distribution:

Central America (from Mexico south). Further into South America replaced by other very similar looking species

Wingspan:

In between 6 and 8 centimeter (females much larger then the males)

Season:

multiple flights. Pupae overwinter.

Food plants:

Fabaceae (Robinia, Gleditsia,Acacia, Albizia, Cassia, Senna, Inga, ...), but also Quercus, Salix and Schinus

Rearing:

One of the easier Syssphinx. Keep warm and clean, in well ventilated plastic containers when young, but move to a netted cage when older. Be advised that cut Fabaceae and Salix does not stay fresh very long in a netted cage. Caterpillars respond badly to poor quality food. Fast growing and ready to pupate within 4 weeks. The pupal stage in between flights is short (approximately 4  weeks). The warmer the faster they develop. Pupae after the last flight in autumn can be overwintered frost free in a cool, unheated room. The fridge is not recommended.

Difficulties:

preventing the adults from emerging late autumn when temperatures are still fairly warm