Sphingonaea

Sphingonaea is a genus of moths in the family Sphingidae. The genus was erected by William Schaus in 1909. These moths are found in Central and South America.

The most well-known species in the genus is Sphingonaea tryoni, commonly known as the oleander hawk moth. This species is native to Australia and New Guinea but has established itself in other parts of the world, including parts of Asia and Africa. It is a large hawk moth with a wingspan of up to 12 centimeters. The forewings are typically brownish-grey with darker markings, while the hindwings are usually reddish-orange with black bands. The larvae of Sphingonaea tryoni feed on various species of Oleander, hence its common name.

Another species, Sphingonaea malgassica, is found in Madagascar. Little is known about its specific host plants or life cycle compared to S. tryoni. The genus Sphingonaea is characterized by certain morphological features, particularly in the wing venation and genitalia, that distinguish it from other sphingid genera. Research continues to explore the diversity and evolutionary relationships within this genus and the broader Sphingidae family.