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Yam hawk moth

Yam hawk moth

Theretra nessus

A species of Theretra

With a proclivity for dusk and dawn, yam hawk moth engages in a distinctive hovering flight, resembling a small hummingbird. This creature is known for its elongated body and rapid wing movement, which allows for a highly precise and sustained nectar extraction from flowers. Adapting a diet according to its life stages, the larvae feed voraciously on a variety of host plants, eventually metamorphosing into adults with a penchant for deep-throated blossoms.

General Info About Yam hawk moth
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Attributes of Yam hawk moth
Colors
Brown
Green
Yellow
Habitat
yam
Adult Food Sources
Nectar from flowers like jasmine, honeysuckle, and other fragrant or white nocturnal flowers
Larva Food Source
Leaves of grapevine (vitis vinifera), cissus, and other dilleniaceae, rubiaceae, and vitaceae family plants
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Yam 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 Yam 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 Yam 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 Yam hawk moth
It is distributed in South Asia, Southeast Asia, East Asia and Australia.
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Distribution Area of Yam hawk moth
Sri Lanka, India, Nepal, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, southern China, Taiwan, South Korea, Japan, Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, northern Australia, New Caledonia
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Life Cycle of Yam hawk moth
Egg The yam hawk moth begins as an egg, which is typically round or oval. The eggs are often laid on host plants and are small, sometimes with distinct coloration to blend with the surroundings, providing camouflage against predators.
Larva Upon hatching, the yam hawk moth larva, or caterpillar, is primarily focused on feeding and growth. It has a segmented body with a distinct head and strong chewing mouthparts for consuming host plant leaves. The caterpillar can be brightly colored or cryptic, with size increasing significantly through a series of molts.
Pupal The yam hawk moth enters the pupal stage encased within a chrysalis. During this period, the insect is immobile and undergoes a drastic transformation. The chrysalis may exhibit muted colors that blend with the environment, reducing predation risk during this vulnerable phase.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult yam 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. The adult typically exhibits bright colors and patterns on the wings that serve various functions, from mating signals to predator deterrence.
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Adult Size of Yam hawk moth
9 - 13 cm
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Predators of Yam hawk moth Larvae
Araneae, aves, hymenoptera, chiroptera, rodentia
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Predators of Adult Yam hawk moth
Aves, araneae, chiroptera
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Interesting Facts About Yam hawk moth
The larvae of yam hawk moth possess a unique defense mechanism; they mimic snakes, with eye-like markings to deter predators.
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Scientific Classification of Yam hawk moth
Tips for Finding Yam hawk moth
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Youth Habitat of Yam hawk moth
Tropical Rainforests, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Adult Habitat of Yam hawk moth
Tropical Rainforests, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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How Can You Attract Yam hawk moth
To attract yam hawk moth, one could use fermented sweet baits such as overripe fruits or mixtures including molasses or beer.
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Habitat Preferences of Yam hawk moth Through Different Life Stages
To observe the stages of yam hawk moth, search leafy environments, particularly in their larval stage where they feed on plant foliage. The caterpillars prefer the leaves of grape, vine and elm plants. As pupae, they can be found buried in loose soil or leaf litter, often at the base of their host plants. Seeking out the adult moths requires visiting flowers during dusk as they are nocturnal and known for their hovering flight while feeding on nectar, resembling the behaviour of hummingbirds. Gardens, meadows, and woodlands are the typical habitats to find these moths at night.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Yam hawk moth
The most suitable time to locate yam hawk moth is usually at dusk or at night when adults are active. For caterpillars, daytime observation may yield better results when they are feeding.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Yam hawk moth
Warm, humid nights are ideal when searching for adult yam hawk moth, while overcast, mild days may be better for finding larvae.
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How and Where Can You Find Yam hawk moth at Different Life Stages
Egg Eggs of yam hawk moth are typically laid on the underside of host plant leaves. To find them, carefully inspect potential host plants and look for small, spherical or oval eggs.
Larva Caterpillars of yam hawk moth can be found on or near their host plants. Look for signs of feeding such as holes in leaves, and check both the upper and underside of leaves.
Pupal Pupae of yam hawk moth may be buried in the soil or concealed in leaf litter. Gently sift through the topsoil or leaf matter near host plants, being cautious not to disturb them too much.
Adult Yam hawk moth adults are often attracted to light sources at night. A simple way to observe them is to set up a white sheet with a light shining onto it, and wait for yam hawk moth to land on the illuminated surface.
Are Yam hawk moth harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Yam hawk moth
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Hurt Plant

When yam hawk moth larvae feed on Vitaceae host plants, they wreak havoc by chewing on leaves and stems. This action results in noticeable tissue loss, which interferes with photosynthesis and nutrient transport, weakening the overall plant health. Continuous feeding can lead to severe defoliation and even plant death if the infestation is heavy.

More Effects of Yam hawk moth

Beneficial Effects of Yam hawk moth
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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
Prefer Plant Type
Fruit Trees, Asclepiadaceae
Attract Plant Feature
Smell, Shape
Pollination Behavior Reason
Accidental Contamination While Feeding On Nectar
The yam hawk moth has a unique role in pollination, primarily visiting flowers of certain fruit trees and Asclepiadaceae. It is drawn to the blossoms by their distinctive shapes and smells, which guide it as it consumes nectar. During this feeding process, pollen is inadvertently transferred, aiding in cross-pollination.
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