Blackburn's Sphinx Moth vs Plain Tiger
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Blackburn's Sphinx Moth | Plain Tiger |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Manduca blackburni | Danaus chrysippus |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Sphingidae | Nymphalidae |
| Size | 100-120 mm wingspan | Wingspan 70-80mm |
| Habitat | Heathland | Heathland |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Herbivores |
| Regions | Oceania (Hawaii) | Africa, Asia, Oceania |
| Conservation | Endangered | Least Concern |
Blackburn's Sphinx Moth
The largest native insect in Hawaii, this sphinx moth has a wingspan up to 120 mm. It was once widespread across the islands but is now extremely rare due to habitat loss and invasive species. Its larvae originally fed on native aiea trees but now also use introduced tobacco.
Did You Know?
This moth has adapted to feed on introduced tobacco plants, a relative of its native host, which may have helped prevent its extinction.
Plain Tiger
An orange butterfly with black borders and white spots that is extremely widespread across Africa and Asia. It is toxic due to larval food plants.
Did You Know?
It is mimicked by multiple species of butterflies across its range including females of the Great Eggfly.