Proserpinus vega

Dyar, 1903

vega sphinx moth, Vega Sphinx

Proserpinus vega is a sphinx moth in the Sphingidae, first described by Harrison Gray Dyar Jr. in 1903. It occurs in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. are active in August, fly during the afternoon, and nectar from flowers. The larvae feed on plants in the evening primrose family (Onagraceae).

Proserpinus vega by no rights reserved, uploaded by Chris (CP) and Pamela (PP) Pipes. Used under a CC0 license.

Proserpinus vega BMNHE813397 male un by The Trustees of the Natural History Museum, London. Used under a CC BY 3.0 license.

Proserpinus vega BMNHE813397 male up by The Trustees of the Natural History Museum, London. Used under a CC BY 3.0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Proserpinus vega: //prəˈsɛrpɪnəs ˈveɪɡə//

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Identification

Wingspan 61–67 mm. Forewing upperside resembles Proserpinus terlooii but distinguished by an additional dark green basal band. Hindwing upperside similar to Proserpinus juanita.

Images

Distribution

Southern Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas southward into Mexico.

Seasonality

One per year; active in August.

Diet

Larvae feed on Onagraceae , including Oenothera, Gaura, and Epilobium. nectar from flowers.

Life Cycle

One annually.

Behavior

fly during the afternoon and visit flowers for nectar.

Ecological Role

function as . Larvae are herbivores specializing on Onagraceae.

Similar Taxa

Proserpinus terlooiiSimilar forewing upperside pattern; P. vega distinguished by additional dark green basal band
Proserpinus juanitaSimilar hindwing upperside pattern