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Pronunciation

How to pronounce Hyalophora cecropia: //haɪəˈlɒfərə sɪˈkroʊpiə//

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Summary

Hyalophora cecropia, also known as the cecropia moth, is the largest native moth in North America. Characterized by its striking wing markings and large size, it plays an important ecological role while facing threats from habitat loss and introduced species.

Physical Characteristics

Adult cecropia moths have a wingspan of 110-150 mm (4.3-5.9 in) and exhibit dark brownish to charcoal-black wings with red shading, especially near the forewing's base. Females can reach a wingspan of 5 to 7 inches (13 to 18 cm) or more. Larvae (caterpillars) are very large, bright green or sea green, with prominent dorsal knobs: thoracic knobs are orange and abdominal ones are yellow. The body is covered with small black hairs, especially in the first instars.

Identification Tips

Look for the crescent-shaped red discal spot with a whitish center on the wings. The red shading beyond the postmedial line distinguishes H. cecropia from H. columbia.

Habitat

Open areas with adjacent trees and green spaces, such as early successional fields, meadows, and near waterways. They are increasingly common in urban and suburban areas.

Distribution

Most common across continental North America east of the Rocky Mountains, from Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island in Canada down to central Florida, extending west over the Eastern Plains and into the eastern Rockies.

Diet

Cecropia moth larvae feed on leaves of various trees and shrubs, including species from the families Aceraceae (maple), Rosaceae (cherry, apple), Betulaceae (birch), and several others.

Life Cycle

Hyalophora cecropia undergoes a univoltine life cycle, typically having one generation per year. Eggs are laid in clusters on host plants, hatching into larvae which have five instars. They mature and spin cocoons, overwintering as pupae until emerging as adults from late March to early June depending on the region.

Reproduction

After mating, females lay up to 100 mottled reddish-brown eggs on the sides of host leaves. Mating occurs typically in early morning and is initiated through pheromone detection by males.

Predators

Natural predators include various wasps and flies that lay their eggs within caterpillars. Squirrels also consume moth pupae, and introduced parasitoids, such as Compsilura concinnata, have posed significant threats to populations.

Conservation Status

Globally Secure, though populations are declining in some areas due to habitat loss, pollution, and introduction of pathogens. It is listed under articles of concern in several states.

Ecosystem Role

Plays an essential role in the ecosystem as both a herbivore and a food source for various predators. The larvae recycle nutrients back into the ecosystem through their feeding and frass.

Economic Impact

Generally considered benign with minimal impact on agriculture. While larvae may occasionally defoliate ornamental trees, they do not cause significant long-term damage.

Cultural Significance

Admired for their size and beauty, these moths contribute to public interest in biodiversity and conservation efforts.

Health Concerns

Cecropia moth larvae contain toxins in their hemolymph which can cause severe allergic reactions in individuals who are frequently exposed. Some individuals report reactions to wing scales and excrement from larvae.

Collecting Methods

• Light traps
• Netting adult moths at night

Preservation Methods

• Pinning specimens
• Freezing collected specimens

Evolution

Hyalophora cecropia is part of the Saturniidae family, which comprises some of the largest and most well-known moths. This species exhibits geographic variation, and instances of hybridization with other species in the genus have been documented.

Similar Taxa

• Hyalophora columbia
• Hyalophora gloveri

Misconceptions

Occasionally confused with other large silk moth species such as H. columbia, particularly due to geographic overlaps and hybrid populations.

Tags

• Moth
• Lepidoptera
• Saturniidae
• Cecropia Moth
• Insect