First Documented Occurrence of Acherontia atropos (African Death's Head Hawk Moth) in India: Life Cycle and Distribution at Pope's College, Tamil Nadu
Abstract
The African Death's Head Hawk Moth ( Acherontia atropos ) is a rare and notable species belonging to the family Sphingidae. Native to southern Europe and Africa, it has expanded its range due to its migratory behavior. This moth is characterized by a distinct skull-like marking on the thorax, hence its name "Death's Head." While the larvae feed on a variety of host plants, the adults primarily consume nectar and honey from beehives. This study focuses on the identification, life cycle, and distribution of the African Death's Head Hawk Moth within the campus of Pope's College, Sawyerpuram, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, India. Eggs were first observed on the host plants during the study period (22.10.2021 to 25.10.2021), and a total of 12 eggs were collected for observation. The eggs were laid on the upper surfaces of leaves of plants such as *Clerodendrum*, jasmine, and members of the Solanaceae family. After hatching, the larvae exhibited characteristic tail horns, which curled as they matured. The larval stage lasted 10-12 days, from 25.10.2021 to 07.11.2021. The larvae pupated in a reddish-brown, stout pupa resembling a swollen cocoon. The pupal stage lasted 15-17 days, from 07.11.2021 to 23.11.2021, occurring underground at a depth of approximately 20-25 cm. This study provides detailed observations of the egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages, noting physiological and morphological changes throughout the moth's development. These findings contribute to the understanding of the species' distribution and life cycle in this region, with an emphasis on its identification and characteristics.
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