Sphingidae

Definition

A family of moths (order Lepidoptera) comprising approximately 1,450 species, commonly known as sphinx moths or hawk moths. Adults are characterized by their streamlined, bullet-shaped bodies, long narrow wings, and exceptional flight capabilities including sustained hovering and rapid forward flight; many species are diurnal and pollinate flowers while hovering, analogous to hummingbirds. Larvae are typically large, smooth caterpillars with a terminal horn, known as hornworms. The family is divided into three subfamilies: Macroglossinae, Smerinthinae, and Sphinginae.

Etymology

From Sphinx (the Greek mythological creature) + -idae (family suffix)

Example

The death's-head hawkmoth (Acherontia atropos), a member of Sphingidae, is renowned for its ability to produce a loud squeak and its distinctive skull-like pattern on the thorax; its hornworm larvae feed on Solanaceae including potato and tomato.

Synonyms

• Sphinx moths
• hawk moths

Related Terms

• Lepidoptera
• Hornworm
• Macroglossinae
• Smerinthinae
• Sphinginae
• hawkmoth pollination syndrome
• hovering flight

Usage Notes

Sphingidae is the formal family name and takes plural grammatical agreement ("Sphingidae are"). The common names "sphinx moth" and "hawk moth" are largely interchangeable in North American and European usage respectively, though "hawk moth" predominates in British English. "Hornworm" properly refers only to the larval stage. The family's flight morphology represents a classic example of convergent evolution with hummingbirds (Trochilidae).