About the Calleta Silkmoth
Eupackardia is a monotypic moth genus in the family Saturniidae erected by Theodore Dru Alison Cockerell in 1912. Its only species, Eupackardia calleta, the calleta silkmoth, was described by John O. Westwood in 1853. It is found in Mexico, Guatemala, as well as in the states such as; Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas.
The wingspan is normally 8–11 cm (3.1–4.3 in), however, some specimens have been reported to exceed 5 inches. The larvae mainly feed on Fraxinus species, Leucophyllum frutescens, Sapium biloculare and Fouquieria splendens.
The adult calleta silkmoth has a black body with a red collar and red on the back of the thorax. The wings, which normally span 8-11 centimetres, are black with conspicuous white post-median lines which happen to be wider in females. They can also have large triangular white spots on their wings however, some may not.
Caterpillars or larvae are normally bright green in colour with white stripes as well as have black scoli sets (spike-like projections) with blue and orange bases, though these colours may vary. These larvae are normally very brightly coloured because they contain biogenetic chemicals that help to repel predators.
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