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Elm sphinx

Elm sphinx

Ceratomia amyntor

A species of Ceratomia, Also known as Elm sphinx moth

The elm sphinx (Ceratomia amyntor) is named so because of its larva's dietary preference being elm trees. However, it isn't very picky as gardeners are warned to be aware of this moth's ability to turn your garden into a buffet. Once it is done its final stage, it evolves into a grey-brown moth with wavy patterns on its wings.

General Info About Elm sphinx
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Attributes of Elm sphinx
Colors
Brown
Black
Habitat
forest; open area
Adult Food Sources
Nectar from evening primrose, honeysuckle, petunia, lilac, and verbena
Larva Food Source
Leaves of elm trees, willow trees, birch trees, basswood, and burdock
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Elm sphinx is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Elm sphinx is often found near the corolla, where its fluffy hairs easily pick up pollen, assisting in the pollination of the plant.
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Elm sphinx feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
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Species Status of Elm sphinx
It is found in North America. The species is not threatened.
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Life Cycle of Elm sphinx
Egg The egg stage involves the embryonic elm sphinx developing within a protective casing. During this period, the initial form of the insect is shaped. The egg size is minute, with coloration often blending with the surrounding environment to evade predators.
Larva As a larva, the elm sphinx is primarily focused on feeding and growth. It possesses a worm-like body with a voracious appetite. During this stage, elm sphinx undergoes multiple molts, significantly increasing in size, and may change color to signal various molts.
Pupal Entering the pupa stage, elm sphinx encases itself and undergoes a radical transformation. In this immobile phase, the larval body structures are broken down and reorganized into adult features. The pupa is typically inconspicuous, camouflaged, or hidden.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult elm sphinx’s development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction and, if the species feeds at this stage, on nectar acquisition.
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Adult Size of Elm sphinx
5 - 12 cm
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Predators of Elm sphinx Larvae
Birds, spiders, wasps, mantises, rodents
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Predators of Adult Elm sphinx
Bats, birds, spiders, praying mantises
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Interesting Facts About Elm sphinx
When threatened, elm sphinx exhibits a striking startle display by flipping its hindwings, revealing eyespots that mimic a much larger and more dangerous animal.
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Scientific Classification of Elm sphinx
Tips for Finding Elm sphinx
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Youth Habitat of Elm sphinx
Forests and Woodlands
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Adult Habitat of Elm sphinx
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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When is the Best Time to Observe Elm sphinx
The most suitable time to find adult elm sphinx is at dusk or during night hours as they are nocturnal and are attracted to light sources. However, larval stages of elm sphinx can typically be found during the day in their preferred host plants.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Elm sphinx
The weather suitable for finding elm sphinx would be warm and humid conditions, particularly after rainfall, as this encourages the adults to become more active and increases plant growth where the larval stages feed and live.
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How and Where Can You Find Elm sphinx at Different Life Stages
Egg Elm sphinx eggs are usually laid on the underside of host plant leaves. To find them, inspect the targeted host plants by looking closely at the undersides of the leaves for small, spherical or oval-shaped eggs that are often laid in clusters.
Larva Elm sphinx larvae, or caterpillars, can be found on or near their host plants where they feed. Search for elm sphinx larvae by carefully examining the leaves of host plants for signs of feeding, such as chewed edges or frass (caterpillar droppings).
Pupal Elm sphinx pupae may be buried shallowly in the soil or found in leaf litter at the base of host plants. Finding them requires gently sifting through the soil or leaf litter in areas where the caterpillars are known to feed.
Adult Adult elm sphinx are attracted to light, so setting up a light trap at night can be an effective method to locate them. Use a bright source of light with a white sheet placed behind it to attract and observe adult elm sphinx.
Are Elm sphinx harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Elm sphinx
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Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Smell
Elm sphinx is an active pollinator often seen darting from flower to flower. The attraction is highly influenced by the color and smell of the blooms. While feeding on the nectar, elm sphinx inadvertently picks up pollen and transfers it to other flowers, aiding in plant reproduction.
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