Automeris iris hesselorum
Ferguson, 1972
Automeris iris hesselorum is a of silk in the Saturniidae. The caterpillars are large, conspicuously colored, and possess urticating spines that deliver a painful sting upon contact. exhibit cryptic forewings that conceal prominent eyespots on the hindwings, used to startle . This subspecies occurs in Middle and North America.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Automeris iris hesselorum: //ˌɔːtəˈmɛrɪs ˈaɪrɪs ˌhɛsˈsɛlɔːrəm//
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Identification
distinguished from similar Automeris by the specific pattern of forewing coloration and the size and placement of hindwing eyespots. Caterpillars identified by the combination of large size, distinctive color pattern, and presence of urticating spines; specific identification to requires geographic and morphological analysis.
Habitat
Rainforest environments, particularly near the base of trees. Associated with plants including oak (Quercus spp.) and less commonly Erythrina and coconut (Cocos nucifera).
Distribution
Recorded from Middle America and North America. Specific range within these regions not well documented in available sources.
Diet
Caterpillars feed on leaves of oak (Quercus spp.), and less commonly on Erythrina and coconut (Cocos nucifera).
Host Associations
- Quercus - food plantprimary
- Erythrina - food plantless common
- Cocos nucifera - food plantless common
Behavior
Caterpillars employ a defense strategy of stinging shock and awe: urticating spines release venom upon contact, causing painful and relatively long-lasting stings. use a two-stage defense: when resting, cryptic forewings provide camouflage; when threatened, rapid wing spreading reveals large hindwing eyespots to startle .
Ecological Role
Caterpillars function as herbivores on forest trees. may serve as prey for various , with their defensive eyespots representing an anti-predator . The is potentially vulnerable to flies such as Compsilura concinnata, which has been implicated in declines of related Automeris species.
Human Relevance
Caterpillars pose a minor medical concern due to their urticating spines, which can cause painful stings and, in some individuals, serious allergic reactions. Not recommended for handling. The is of interest to entomologists and naturalists for its striking appearance and defensive adaptations.
Similar Taxa
- Automeris metzliSimilar caterpillar appearance and defensive adaptations; distinguished by geographic range (Mexico to Ecuador and Trinidad) and subtle morphological differences.
- Automeris ioClosely related with similar eyespot defense in and urticating caterpillars; occurs in North America including the northeastern United States, where it has experienced documented declines.
More Details
Taxonomic note
The specific epithet 'hesselorum' honors individuals with the surname Hessel, likely entomologists or collectors who contributed to the study of Saturniidae.
Conservation context
Related Automeris , particularly A. io, have declined in parts of their range due to destruction and introduction of the parasitic fly Compsilura concinnata for of . Similar threats may affect A. iris hesselorum.