Hemileuca stonei

Lemaire, 1993

Stone's buckmoth, pangola-grass moth

Hemileuca stonei is a day-flying buck moth in the Saturniidae, first described by Claude Lemaire in 1993. The occurs in Central and North America and is one of approximately 24 Hemileuca species in North America. Like other members of its , it likely has urticating (stinging) caterpillars that feed on specific plants. The species is relatively poorly documented compared to some .

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Hemileuca stonei: /ˌhɛ.mɪˈlɛu.ka ˈstoʊ.neɪ/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Identification

Hemileuca stonei can be distinguished from other Hemileuca by geographic range and potentially by subtle differences in wing pattern and coloration, though specific diagnostic features require expert examination. The Hemileuca is characterized by day-flying with reduced mouthparts, and caterpillars with prominent spines. Species-level identification within Hemileuca often requires examination of genitalia or geographic context.

Habitat

Based on its "pangola-," the has been associated with grassland or prairie where pangola grass (Digitaria eriantha) may occur. The related discussion of prairie management suggests potential vulnerability to prescribed burning practices.

Distribution

Documented from Central America and North America. Specific countries or regions within this range are not precisely detailed in available sources.

Diet

Larvae have been associated with pangola grass (Digitaria eriantha) based on the . do not feed, having mouthparts typical of Saturniidae.

Host Associations

Digitaria eriantha - larval food plantpangola grass

Life Cycle

As with other Saturniidae, Hemileuca stonei likely has a complete with , larva (caterpillar), pupa (in cocoon), and stages. Caterpillars probably pupate in the soil or leaf litter. Adults are short-lived and do not feed.

Behavior

are day-flying, a characteristic trait of the Hemileuca. Males likely use their feathery to detect female . Females probably emit -specific pheromones to attract mates and deposit on or near plants.

Ecological Role

As a herbivore in larval stages, contributes to nutrient cycling in grassland . may serve as prey for birds and other . The may be sensitive to fire management practices in prairie .

Human Relevance

The has been discussed in conservation contexts regarding prescribed burning impacts on prairie . Like other Hemileuca species, the caterpillars may have urticating spines that could cause skin irritation if handled, though specific documentation for this species is lacking. The "pangola-" suggests potential relevance to agricultural or pasture where pangola grass is grown.

Similar Taxa

Hemileuca nevadensisAnother prairie-associated buck moth with documented vulnerability to prescribed burning; similar requirements and
Hemileuca eglanterinaWidely distributed sheep moth with similar day-flying and general ; distinguished by geographic range and plant associations
Hemileuca heraVariable buck moth with similar appearance; distinguished by geographic distribution and subtle morphological differences

More Details

Conservation concerns

The has been implicitly referenced in discussions about the impacts of aggressive prescribed burning on prairie . The related Hemileuca nevadensis experienced near-total mortality from a late May burn in Iowa, suggesting similar vulnerability for H. stonei in managed grasslands.

Taxonomic notes

The was described relatively recently (1993) and is less well-studied than many . The MONA/Hodges number is 7744.5.

Research needs

Basic including precise plant range, larval , , and response to fire management requires documentation.