Automeris randa
Druce, 1894
Rand's Eyed Silkmoth, Rand's Eyed Silk Moth
Automeris randa is a of silk in the Saturniidae, described by Herbert Druce in 1894. It is one of the "eyed" silk moths, characterized by prominent eyespot patterns on the hindwings used for deterrence. The species occurs in Central and North America and is part of a known for caterpillars bearing venomous urticating spines.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Automeris randa: //ˌɔːtəˈmɛrɪs ˈrændə//
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Distribution
Middle America and North America
Similar Taxa
- Automeris ioShares the same and the "Io moth"; both possess eyespots on hindwings and have caterpillars with urticating spines. However, A. io is relatively common in much of North America including the eastern United States, while A. randa has a more restricted distribution in Central and North America.
- Automeris metzliClosely related congeneric found from Mexico to Ecuador and Trinidad; both species have spectacular caterpillars with urticating spines and rainforest associations, but A. metzli has been documented feeding on oak, Erythrina, and coconut leaves.
More Details
Taxonomic Note
The MONA or Hodges number for Automeris randa is 7745.
Defensive Adaptations
Based on documented traits of the Automeris, caterpillars of this likely possess urticating spines containing venom that cause painful stings upon contact. likely use eyespots on the hindwings to startle , though these specific have not been directly observed in A. randa.