Male: LUNA x ISABELLAE

Actias luna x Graellsia isabellae courtesy of Rainer Plontke, Franz Renner, Bob Vuattoux.

Larvae were reared outdoors on live food in a rearing sleeve.

Rainer writes, "The result is in cooperation with Franz Renner; the successful pairing (isabellae male with luna female) was done by Robert Vuattoux.

"The caterpillars fed on Liquidamber well. That seems to be interesting, because isabellae likes Pinus and luna Juglans."

There are great advantages to sleeve rearing: 1) foliage maintains a natural moisture contact; 2) air flow and sunlight help to reduce effects of natural pathogens; 3) minimal handling is required (Frass can be removed by opening bottom of sleeve.).

Below are a series of larval images of the cooperative venture, sent to me by Rainer Plontke.

Fifth instar lateral view

Fifth instar dorsal view

Use your browser "Back" button to return to the previous page.