Tribe Smerinthini

Grote and Robinson, 1865

Etymology

Smerinthini: (S)merinthos is a Greek word meaning a “cord” or “string.”

The suffix ini is standard taxonomic nomenclature to indicate that the word pertains to a zoological subfamily.

Pronunciation

Smeer-in-thy-ny

Overview

There are four genera consisting of 29 species within the tribe Smerinthini. Three of the four genera can be found in North America, while the fouth genus, Laothoe, is found exclusively in the old world throughout much of Euproe and Asia. Four of the 29 species within this tribe are found in Indiana.

Photo Credits

Pachysphinx courtesy of Sheryl Price. Paonias courtesy of Brian Lowry.