Manduca extrema is a species of moth in the family Sphingidae, commonly known as hawk moths or sphinx moths. The species was first described by the entomologist Gehlen in 1926 under the name Protoparce extrema and later placed in the genus Manduca.
Taxonomy
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Lepidoptera
- Family: Sphingidae
- Genus: Manduca
- Species: M. extrema
The binomial authority is (Gehlen, 1926). Synonyms include Protoparce extrema Gehlen, 1926.
Description
While detailed morphological characteristics are not extensively documented in the available literature, Manduca extrema follows the general body plan of the genus Manduca: a robust, medium‑to‑large moth with a streamlined abdomen and narrow forewings adapted for rapid flight. Photographs of male specimens show dorsal and ventral wing patterns typical of the group.
Distribution and Habitat
Manduca extrema has been recorded in parts of South America, specifically:
- Venezuela
- Ecuador
- Bolivia
The species appears to be associated with habitats where its larval host plants are present, although precise ecological preferences are not thoroughly described in the sources consulted.
Phenology
Adult moths of this species have been documented on the wing in October, suggesting a seasonal emergence period that may be tied to regional climatic conditions.
References
- Wikipedia contributors. “Manduca extrema.” Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved from the article’s revision dated 2024‑04‑18.
- CATE Creating a Taxonomic eScience – Sphingidae (archived).
- Silkmoths (archived).
Note: The information above is derived from publicly available taxonomic databases and the Wikipedia entry for Manduca extrema. Further research, including examination of primary taxonomic literature and field observations, would be required to expand on the species’ biology, ecology, and conservation status.