, used under CC-BY-NC-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Plebeian sphinx moth
Paratrea plebeja
A species of Paratrea, Also known as Plebeian Sphinx
The length of the forewing is 3 - 3.5 cm.
General Info About Plebeian sphinx moth
Instantly identify insects with a snap
Snap a photo for instant insect ID and risk assessment, gaining quick insights on bite assessment, toxicity, pest control, behavior, habitat, and safe interaction tips, etc.
Download the App for Free
Attributes of Plebeian sphinx moth
Colors
Black
Gray
Habitat
field; edge; host plant
Adult Food Sources
Flower nectar from plants such as honeysuckle, jasmine, petunia, phlox, and verbena
Larva Food Source
Willow tree leaves, poplar tree leaves, cottonwood tree leaves, sweetgum tree leaves, and oak tree leaves
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Plebeian sphinx moth is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Plebeian sphinx 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 Plebeian sphinx 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.
AI entomologist in your pocket, scan QR code to download
Life Cycle of Plebeian sphinx moth
Egg The egg phase for plebeian sphinx moth typically involves a small, oval or round egg laid on host plants. The color may vary, generally being white or cream, and the size is minute. The egg serves solely as a developmental stage with no locomotion or feeding.
Larva In the larval stage, plebeian sphinx moth possesses a worm-like body, varying in color and pattern to blend with the environment. It grows significantly in size, molts multiple times, and its primary function is to consume food voraciously to store energy for the later stages.
Pupal During pupation, plebeian sphinx moth becomes motionless within a cocoon or chrysalis, which can be variously camouflaged. Its body undergoes a drastic transformation, rearranging into adult structures. The pupa is immobile and does not feed as its energy is directed to metamorphosis.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult plebeian sphinx 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 and, in many species, feeding on nectar.
Unlock the secrets of insect life cycles, habitats, behaviors and observation tips!!
Download the App for Free
How Can You Attract Plebeian sphinx moth
For attracting adult plebeian sphinx moth, sweet solutions or fermented fruit baits can be used.
Habitat Preferences of Plebeian sphinx moth Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of plebeian sphinx moth are typically deposited on the underside of host plant leaves. As caterpillars, they are found munching on leaves, often of specific host plants, and can be commonly located by searching these plants. The pupal stage is usually underground, so searching around the host plants' bases and digging gently through the soil may reveal them. Adult plebeian sphinx moth are nocturnal and are attracted to lights, so they are often found near light sources after dusk. Observing flowers, especially during the night, can also be an effective way to locate these moths, as they feed on nectar.
When is the Best Time to Observe Plebeian sphinx moth
The best time to find adult plebeian sphinx moth is at dusk or at night when they are most active.
What is the Best Weather to Observe Plebeian sphinx moth
Calm, warm, and humid weather conditions are ideal for finding plebeian sphinx moth as these conditions are preferable for their activity.
How and Where Can You Find Plebeian sphinx moth at Different Life Stages
Egg Plebeian sphinx moth eggs can typically be found on the underside of host plant leaves. Carefully inspect the leaves, especially those that show signs of nibbling or other damage.
Larva Plebeian sphinx moth caterpillars can be found by searching the host plants they feed on. Look for signs of feeding such as holes in the leaves, frass (caterpillar droppings), and the caterpillars themselves.
Pupal To find plebeian sphinx moth pupae, look at the base of host plants or in the soil nearby, as they may form their pupae underground or in concealed locations near the plant.
Adult Plebeian sphinx moth adults are often attracted to light sources. Setting up a light at night near the host plants or using bait stations with sweet solutions can draw them out, making them easier to locate and observe.
Are Plebeian sphinx moth harmful?
Your Complete Pest Control Guide
Discover effective tips for preventing and eliminating pest infestations to keep bugs away from your home.
Download the App for Free
Harmful Effects of Plebeian sphinx moth
Reveal the harmful impacts of diverse insects
Explore the dangers of insects related to toxicity, lethality, human biting, human stinging, pathogenicity, hematophagy, allergenicity, parasitism, etc.
Download the App for Free
Hurt Plant
The larvae of plebeian sphinx moth feed on the leaves of a wide range of host plants. This constant chewing of plant tissues can lead to defoliation, ranging from mild cosmetic damage to severe impairment of photosynthesis, affecting the plant's overall health and vigor.
Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
Download the App for Free
Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Shape
Plebeian sphinx moth acts as an important pollinator, flitting from flower to flower. Drawn in by vibrant colors and distinctive shapes, it consumes pollen and nectar. During their feeding, pollen is transferred, aiding in the fertilization of many plants.
Common Questions People Also Ask
Get Quick Insect Answers with a Snap
Snap a photo for instant insect ID and answers on bites, toxicity, pest control, behavior, habitat, and safety tips!