Sphingidae

Sphingidae, commonly known as hawk moths or sphinx moths, is a family of moths in the order Lepidoptera. Members are typically medium to large with robust bodies, narrow forewings and often broader hindwings. They are powerful, fast fliers and many species can hover in front of flowers while feeding on nectar with a long proboscis.

Adults are mostly nocturnal, though several species are crepuscular or diurnal. They are strong migrants in some regions and play important roles as pollinators of tubular flowers. The larvae, commonly called hornworms, usually bear a distinctive horn on the posterior end. Pupation occurs in soil or leaf litter, and adults emerge after completing metamorphosis.

Distribution and diversity: Sphingidae occur worldwide, with the greatest diversity in the tropics. The family comprises more than 1,400 described species and is divided into several subfamilies, including Smerinthinae, Sphinginae, and Macroglossinae. Notable genera include Acherontia (death's-head hawk moths), Deilephila, Manduca, Macroglossum, Smerinthus, and Cephonodes (clearwing hawk moths).

Ecology and human interactions: Sphingids are important pollinators for many long-tubed flowers, and their hovering behavior enables nectar feeding that many other moths cannot perform. Some species are agricultural pests; the tobacco hornworm Manduca sexta and the tomato hornworm Manduca quinquemaculata can defoliate crops. In addition, Manduca sexta has been widely used as a model organism in physiological and neurological research.

Conservation and significance: While many sphingids are common, habitat loss and environmental change threaten certain species. Overall, the family is noted for its ecological roles, striking wing patterns, and the diversity of life histories across its many genera.