Ceratomia catalpae
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SPECIES
Ceratomia catalpae

Ceratomia catalpae, the catalpa sphinx, is a hawk moth of the family Sphingidae. The species was first described by Jean Baptiste Boisduval in 1875. Other common names are the Catawba worm, or Catalpa sphinx.

Distribution

Geography

Ceratomia catalpae is a native of southeastern North America and can be located on catalpa trees that grow within this region. It can be found from Maine, west to Iowa, south to Florida, the Gulf States and Texas.

Habits and Lifestyle

Diet and Nutrition

Mating Habits

From oviposition of the eggs to pupation, about four weeks will pass. Where multiple broods occur, pupae will eclose in two weeks, or when conditions are suitable. Adult C. catalpae do not reflect the wonderful colors of their larvae. They are a dull brown color lacking the show-off appearance of its larval stages.

Population

Relationship with Humans

C. catalpae caterpillars are used as fishing baits to catch bass, bream, and catfish.

References

1. Ceratomia catalpae Wikipedia article - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ceratomia_catalpae

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