Convolvulaceae-feeder
Guides
Agrius
sweetpotato hornworms, convolvulus hawkmoths
Agrius is a genus of hawkmoths (Sphingidae) containing approximately 3–5 species, most notably Agrius cingulata (sweetpotato hornworm) and Agrius convolvuli (convolvulus hawkmoth). These are large, robust moths with distinctive pinkish abdominal bands. The larvae are economically significant agricultural pests, particularly of sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) and related Convolvulaceae. Adults are powerful fliers capable of long-distance migration, with some populations undertaking transcontinental movements. The genus occurs across tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, with some species extending into temperate zones during summer months.
Megacerus discoidus (Say, 1824)
red megacerus
Megacerus discoidus is a seed-feeding bruchine beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is a specialist predator of hedge bindweed (Calystegia sepium) seeds, with larvae completing their entire development within individual seeds. The species has been studied for its potential use in biological control of this weedy vine. It occurs in North America and Central America.
Syntomeida melanthus
Black-banded Wasp Moth
Syntomeida melanthus, the black-banded wasp moth, is a day-flying arctiine moth native to the southwestern United States, Mexico, Central America, and northern South America. Adults exhibit wasp-mimicry with contrasting coloration and are active during spring and fall in the United States. The species was described by Pieter Cramer in 1779 and belongs to a genus known for sequestering cardiac glycosides from host plants.