Notes on the Life Cycle of the Tobacco Hornworm, Manduca sexta (L.) (Lepidoptera; Sphingidae), in Puerto Rico

Abstract

The life cycle of the sphingid moth, Manduca sexta (L.), the tobacco hornworm, was investigated in Puerto Rico. Descriptions of the stages, including measurements of the egg (length and width), larva (length and head capsule width), pupa (length), and the duration of each of the stages are given. The estimated leaf consumption by each larval instar, a list of known host plants, and the natural enemies known to occur in Puerto Rico are included.