Acherontia lachesis

The greater death's head hawkmoth, known scientifically as Acherontia lachesis, is a large moth. It belongs to the sphingid family of moths. This species is one of three members of the Acherontia genus. It is often called a "bee robber" because of its unique feeding habits. These moths play an interesting role in the ecosystems where they live. They are mostly nocturnal, meaning they are active during the night hours.

This moth has a very specialized way to find food. It is highly attracted to honey. To get this food, the moth uses a clever survival strategy. It can mimic the scent of honey bees. This allows the moth to enter a beehive without being attacked. Once inside, it uses a stout and very strong tongue. This specialized organ can pierce through wax cells. The moth then sucks the honey directly out of the cells.

The appearance of Acherontia lachesis is quite distinct. It is much larger than its relative, Acherontia styx. This moth can have a wingspan of up to 13 cm. Its abdomen features large grey stripes and segmental bands. These markings are so large that only small yellow patches remain visible. The hindwing contains a large black patch at its base. The wings are also banded with black patterns. The underside of the abdomen is banded with black as well.

The life cycle of the moth begins with the larva, or caterpillar. These larvae can grow to a length of 125 mm. They come in several different colors, including green, yellow, and brownish-grey. The most common color for the larva is grey. They have oblique body stripes and a prickly tail horn. This horn is curled at the very tip. The larva undergoes a specific process to pupate. It pushes its head into the earth to bury itself. It then creates an ovoid chamber about 15 cm below the soil surface. This is where the larva sheds its skin to transform.

History shows that scientists have studied this moth for a long time. Johan Christian Fabricius first described the species in 1798. Since that discovery, researchers have mapped its wide distribution. The moth is found throughout much of the Oriental region. This includes countries like India, Pakistan, and Nepal. It is also found in the Philippines and southern Japan. Its range extends to the southern Russian Far East and Indonesia. Recently, the species has become established on the Hawaiian Islands.

Many different plants serve as host plants for the larvae. The caterpillars eat leaves from various plant families. These include the Solanaceae and Fabaceae families. Specific examples of host plants include tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) and potato (Solanum tuberosum). They also feed on plants like jasmine and lantana camara. The variety of plants they can eat helps them survive in many habitats. However, the larvae face dangers from nature. They are often parasitised by tachinid flies. Other predators include specific insects like Amblyjoppa cognatoria.

When the moth is not feeding, it has specific behaviors. It usually rests with its wings folded. In this position, its abdomen is completely covered. If a person or animal disturbs the moth, it reacts quickly. It will raise its body from the surface. It also partially opens and raises its wings. During this time, the moth emits a squealing note. The larvae also have a defense mechanism. When molested, the caterpillar throws its head and front body segments from side to side. It also makes a rapid clicking noise with its mandibles.

It is important to note a common mistake regarding this moth. Many people associate the "death's head" name with movies. The moth used in the posters for The Silence of the Lambs is actually a different species. That moth is Acherontia atropos. While they are related, Acherontia lachesis is a distinct species with its own unique range and characteristics. Understanding these differences helps scientists accurately study the diversity of the Acherontia genus.