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Silver-striped hawk-moth
Hippotion celerio
A species of Hippotion, Also known as Grapevine hawk moth, Vine hawk-moth, Silverstripe hawkmoth, Taro hawk moth
The forewing is typically 1.1–1.4 inches in long. The body and forewing of the adult moth are green and ochre. They have silvery white dots and streaks, with a silvery band running obliquely on the forewing. The hindwing is red near its lower angle (tornus) to pinkish over other parts of the wing. It is crossed by a black bar and black veins.
General Info About Silver-striped hawk-moth
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Attributes of Silver-striped hawk-moth
Colors
Brown
Red
White
Habitat
ornamental plant; crop
Adult Food Sources
Nectar of flowers such as nicotiana, petunia, lonicera, and asystasia
Larva Food Source
Grapevine (vitis spp.), cissus, gardenia (gardenia spp.), cayratia, and impatiens
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Silver-striped hawk-moth is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Silver-striped hawk-moth 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 Silver-striped hawk-moth feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Silver-striped hawk-moth
It is found in Africa and central and southern Asia of India, Sri Lanka and, as a migrant in southern Europe and Australia.
Distribution Area of Silver-striped hawk-moth
Africa, Central and Southern Asia of India, Sri Lanka, Southern Europe, Australia
Appearance of Silver-striped hawk-moth
The forewing is typically 2.5 - 3.5 cm long. The body and forewing of the adult moth are green and ochre. They have silvery white dots and streaks, with a silvery band running obliquely on the forewing. Larvae may be green, yellowish green or even brown.
Egg The initial stage begins when the tiny eggs of silver-striped hawk-moth are laid. These eggs are often spherical and vary in color, but generally they blend in with the surrounding environment to avoid predation.
Larva Upon hatching, the larva of silver-striped hawk-moth emerges, characterized by a voracious appetite for leaves. It is elongated and segmented, with a distinct head and often bears striking patterns for defence or camouflage.
Pupal After several molts, the silver-striped hawk-moth enters the pupal stage, encased in a chrysalis. Here, it undergoes remarkable transformation, its tissues reorganizing. The chrysalis may exhibit subtle color changes as development progresses.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult silver-striped hawk-moth’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.
Adult Size of Silver-striped hawk-moth
2.5 - 3.5 cm
Predators of Silver-striped hawk-moth Larvae
Birds, reptiles, arachnids, insects
Predators of Adult Silver-striped hawk-moth
Bats, birds, spiders, praying mantises
Interesting Facts About Silver-striped hawk-moth
Silver-striped hawk-moth can hover mid-air like hummingbirds, a rare ability among moths, enabling them to feed on nectar while airborne.
Scientific Classification of Silver-striped hawk-moth
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Youth Habitat of Silver-striped hawk-moth
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
Adult Habitat of Silver-striped hawk-moth
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Urban and Suburban Areas, Tropical Rainforests
How Can You Attract Silver-striped hawk-moth
To attract adult silver-striped hawk-moth, one can use a mix of fermented sweet fruits and wine or sugar water as trap food, as they are often attracted to sweet substances which mimic nectar.
Habitat Preferences of Silver-striped hawk-moth Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of silver-striped hawk-moth are usually found on the underside of host plant leaves. Caterpillars typically dwell on the host plants they feed on, camouflaged among the foliage. Pupae tend to be buried in shallow underground chambers or in leaf litter nearby the host plants. Adults are nocturnal and often located near nectar sources like flowers or artificial lights. To locate these stages, one should search the appropriate host plants for eggs and caterpillars, inspect the ground and leaf litter for pupae, or look for adults around lights and flowers during evening hours.
When is the Best Time to Observe Silver-striped hawk-moth
The most suitable time to find adult silver-striped hawk-moth is at dusk or during the night when they are active and feeding. The larval stages are more active during the day and can be found on host plants.
What is the Best Weather to Observe Silver-striped hawk-moth
Warm, dry nights are ideal weather conditions to find adult silver-striped hawk-moth as they are less active in cooler or wet weather. Larvae prefer warm and humid conditions that support a healthy growth of host plants.
How and Where Can You Find Silver-striped hawk-moth at Different Life Stages
Egg Eggs are laid on the underside of host plant leaves and are small and spherical. Look for them by carefully inspecting the leaves of known host plants in the area.
Larva Caterpillars of silver-striped hawk-moth can be found feeding on host plants. They are often large and conspicuous with a unique horn at the rear end. Searching for chewed leaves on host plants can help locate them.
Pupal Pupae may be found in the soil, under leaf litter, or in loose bark. Look for disturbed soil or cocoon-like structures near host plants.
Adult Silver-striped hawk-moth adults are nectar feeders and are attracted to bright flowers with sweet scents after dusk. Use a flashlight with a red filter to minimize disturbance and locate them feeding or resting on flowers at night.
Are Silver-striped hawk-moth harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Silver-striped hawk-moth
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Agricultural Pests
Larvae of silver-striped hawk-moth feed on host plant leaves, leading to defoliation. Mild infestations may cause limited damage, but severe cases result in significant leaf loss, impairing photosynthesis and potentially devastating crops. The destruction could stress plants, reduce yields, and negatively impact agricultural revenue and food supply.
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Prefer Plant Type
Yellow Flowers
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Smell
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Silver-striped hawk-moth is an efficient nocturnal pollinator, attracted to brightly colored, fragrant yellow flowers. With their moth-like appearance, they hover and skillfully extract pollen, inadvertently transferring it as they feed for sustenance.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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