description Giant sphinx moth Overview
The giant sphinx moth, Cocytius antaeus, is a large hawk moth in the family Sphingidae found in tropical and subtropical parts of the Americas. It has long, narrow wings, a robust body, and an exceptionally long proboscis adapted for feeding from deep tubular flowers while hovering. The species has been documented carrying pollen from the ghost orchid, making it one of the moths associated with pollination of that rare plant.
help Giant sphinx moth FAQ
How big is the giant sphinx moth?
Cocytius antaeus is one of the largest sphinx moths of the Americas, with a wingspan that can reach roughly 15 centimeters, about six inches. Its robust body and long, narrow wings make it an imposing insect even by hawk moth standards.
What does the giant sphinx moth caterpillar eat?
The larvae feed on plants in the custard-apple family, the Annonaceae, including Annona species. This host plant specialization is a key reason the moth is tied to tropical and subtropical habitats.
Where can the giant sphinx moth be found?
It occurs across tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, from South America north through Central America and into Mexico. In the United States it has been recorded in southern Florida and Texas.
Why does the giant sphinx moth have such a long proboscis?
The extremely long tongue lets it feed on the nectar of deep tubular flowers while hovering, flowers shorter-tongued insects cannot reach. This trait is famously illustrated elsewhere in the sphinx moth family by Xanthopan morganii, the Madagascar moth whose existence Darwin predicted from an orchid's foot-long spur.
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