Comma Nephele
Common NameComma Nephele
Scientific NameNephele comma
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilyMacroglossinae
Wingspan (mm)70
Primary Colorsgreen, dark green, white
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, woodlands, gardens, savanna
Geographic RangeSub-Saharan Africa, Madagascar
Host PlantsCarissa edulis, Saba comorensis, Diplorhynchus condylocarpon
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, with peaks during rainy seasons
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically green or brown, often with eyespots, feeding on various tropical plants. Pupation occurs in a cocoon in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsThe distinctive bright green coloration combined with the prominent white comma-shaped spots on the forewings are the most reliable features for identification.
Description
A medium-sized hawk-moth characterized by its robust, bright green body and forewings, which are adorned with darker green wavy bands and prominent white comma-shaped markings.
