Synonyms and other taxonomic changes
synonym
Phlegethontius Hübner, [1819]; Verz. bek. Schmett. (9), p.
140
synonym Protoparce Burmeister, 1856; Abh. naturf. Ges. Halle v.3, p.63
synonym Macrosila Walker, 1856; List Spec. Lepid. Insects Colln Br. Mus., v.8, p.198
synonym
Diludia Grote & Robinson, 1865; Proc. Ent. Soc. Phil., v.5, p.
163,
188
synonym
Syzygia Grote & Robinson, 1865; Proc. Ent. Soc. Phil., v.5, p.
164
synonym Chlaenogramma Smith, 1887; Ent. Americana, v.3, p.154
Explanation of Names
Apparently from Latin
manduc, chew
(1), verb
manducare to chew
(2). Presumably refers to the feeding of the caterpillar.
Numbers
10*
Manduca species are found in America north of Mexico
(3)
* Species not yet in the guide: M. albiplaga (single adventitious record in KS)
Life Cycle
Molting is initiated when the insect gets to a certain weight.
(4)
Metamorphosis occurs when juvenile hormone are switched to ecdysteroids. This is related to head size at the beginning of the larval stage. If the head width is over 5mm, pupation occurs at the next molt when the insect weighs around 5g. It isn't known how the insect assesses this or how the info is transmitted.
(4)Internet References
Moth Photographers Group - pinned adults of all ten
Manduca species
Moth Photographers Group - photos of six of the
Manduca species (living moths)