Explanation of Names
Latin quinque- "five" + maculata- "spotted"
Identification
Similar to Carolina Sphinx, but has five pairs of spots on abdomen, not six. Zig-zag lines on hindwing are sharp, separated by white.
The caterpillar has eight v-shaped stripes rather than the seven diagonal stripes of the similar Tobacco Hornworm (larva of Carolina Sphinx). The horn is also striaght and blue-black rather than orange, yellow red. Unfortunately many images of these caterpillars found on the internet are misidentified. See
National Gardening Association website for correctly indentified image of larva.
Range
Includes eastern North America. More common in southern states, especially along the Gulf Coast.
Food
Adults fly at dusk, perhaps take nectar?
Life Cycle
Larvae feed on tomato, tobacco, and relatives (Solanaceae). Pupate in soil and overwinter at that stage.
Remarks
Caterpillars are sometimes a pest of cultivated plants.
Print References
Covell, p. 32, plate 3 #4
Salsbury, p. 323--photo of specimen, adult
(1)Internet References
Florida Gardener Note: the larval image on this site is of
Manduca sexta, not this species
