Madoryx pseudothyreus

Distinguished from the windowed sphinx (Madoryx oiclus) by the absence of a pale, contrasting patch on the forewing upperside. In M. pseudothyreus, the forewing is more uniformly brown with darker markings, whereas M. oiclus shows a distinct pale area. Genitalia examination may be required for definitive identification of worn specimens. From other Madoryx species, it differs in wing pattern details and geographic distribution.

Medium-sized hawkmoth with narrow, elongated forewings and a streamlined body typical of the genus. Forewing upperside is brown with darker markings; the pattern lacks the distinct pale 'window' patch found in the closely related Madoryx oiclus. Hindwings are narrower than forewings. Body is robust with a tapering abdomen. Resting posture holds wings flat or slightly tented over the body.

Tropical and subtropical environments in the Caribbean region, including coastal and inland areas of southern Florida, Cuba, and neighboring islands. Specific microhabitat preferences are poorly documented but likely includes areas supporting larval host plants.

Southern tip of Florida, USA; Cuba; and surrounding West Indies islands. Records indicate presence throughout the Caribbean region.

Adults are likely nocturnal pollinators, though specific floral associations are not documented. Larvae, if herbivorous as in related species, would function as primary consumers.

• Madoryx oiclusWindowed sphinx; distinguished by presence of pale 'window' patch on forewing versus uniformly dark forewing in M. pseudothyreus. Both occur in overlapping ranges in the Caribbean.

• sphingidae
• hawkmoth
• caribbean
• florida
• cryptic species pair

• BugGuide
• GBIF taxonomy match
• iNaturalist taxon
• NCBI Taxonomy
• Catalogue of Life