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Geographic range:
Nearctic, Neotropical: R. orizaba
ranges from south U.S.A. throughout Mexico and Central America to
Bolivia and Venezuela.
Physical
characteristics: Large (up to 180 mm) moth with distinctive
window shaped pattern on the wings corresponding to sections lacking
the microscopic scales that cover the rest of the moth's wings. Overall
color is brown, with many distinct shades and patterns. In males,
tha antenae are comb -shaped. The caterpillar undergoes a series of
molts. After the last one is concluded, the larvae has a green color
with yellow lines on the body divisions. The inferior part of the
body is slightly lighter and is separated from the superior by a light
creamy line.
Food habits:
The caterpillars have voracious appetites, devouring the leaves of
many trees and shrubs. Adults are actually unable to eat, because
their mouthparts are greatly reduced or, in some species,lacking entirely.
Reproduction and Behavior:
These moths are not active during the day. They lie flat against tree
trunks or on heaps of dead leaves, trying to escape notice. Their
wings help disguise them, with their magnificent designs mainly in
browns and ochres. In some species, the colouring might vary with
the time of year. |
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