Sesia bembeciformis (Hübner, 1806)
lunar hornet moth
on Salix
England, Norfolk, Downham-Market, 13.vi.2023 © Rob Edmunds (to lure)
parasite
The larva makes a 10-40 cm long tunnel in the basal part of the stem, between bark and wood.The sawdust is expelled through an opening. Pupation in the gallery, in spring, in a cocoon that had been made the previous autumn. After emergence the exuvium protrudes half-way out of the exit opening. Preference for warm and dry locations.
host plants
Salicaceae, monophagous
Salix alba, aurita, caprea, cinerea, gmelinii, purpurea, viminalis.
The most important host is S. caprea.
phenology
The larva lives for 3-4 years.
distribution within Europe
larva, pupa
Larva and pupa are extensively described by Bąkowski.
synonyms
Sphecia crabroniformis (Lewin, 1797).
references
Bąkowski (2013b), Bartsch (1992a), Ebner (ed., 1997a), Itämies, Mutanen, Mutanen & Pöykkö (1996a), Kusdas & Reichl (eds, 1974a), Laštůvka & Laštůvka (2001a, 2015a), De Prins, Steeman & Sierens (2016a), Pühringer (2000a, 2004a), Sage (2005a), Wegner (2010a).