Distribution:

from (southern) Mexico to (maybe) Panama. There's a lot of uncertainty about this species. Formerly a subspecies of arcaei, but elevated to full species status.

Wingspan:

approximately 7 to 10 cm

Season:

in captivity continuously when kept warm

Food plants:

highly polyphage. Does well on Rosaceae (Prunus, Malus, Crataegus, ...), Anacardiaceae (Rhus, Schinus, ...), Fagaceae and relatives (Quercus, Fagus, Corylus, ...), Fabaceae (Senna, Cassia, Robinia, ...), Myrtaceae (Eugenia, Eucalyptus, ...)

Rearing:

An easy species.  Keep warm (minimum room temperature), in spacious well ventilated plastic containers, but watch out for condensation.  The caterpillars tolerate company very well and are best kept in (not too large) groups. Ready to pupate within 5 to 6 weeks. When the full grown caterpillars turn reddish, move to individual containers lined with kitchen paper. Moths emerge within approximately 3 to 4 weeks, depending on temperature and humidity.

Difficulties:

none