Genus Smerinthus

Latreille, 1802

Etymology

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

Pronunciation

Smeer-in-thuhs

Overview

The genus Smerinthus currently contains over about 14 species worldwide. Nine species can be found in Europe and Asia, and five are new world species. Of the five species found in the US, two are possible to be seen in Indiana; Twin-spotted Sphinx (Smerinthus jamaicensis) and the less common, One-eyed Sphinx (Smerinthus cerisyi).

Photo Credits

Twin-spotted Sphinx (Smerinthus jamaicensis) courtesy of Rick Malad.