Species Composition and Assessment of Sphingid Moths (Heterocera, Sphingidae) in Mount Malimumu, Pantaron Mountain Range, Mindanao, Philippines

Abstract

High diversity of sphingid moth species can be found in tropical rainforests. Mount Malimumu of Pantaron Mountain Range, Mindanao, Philippines, has a vast rainforest, which is a Key Biodiversity Area. However, no records of sphingid moths have been known to occur in Mount Malimumu of the Pantaron Mountain Range. Thus, this study aimed to determine species composition and assess the local statussphingid moths of Mount Malimumu. A 3 × 4 m white silk cloth and 250 V light bulbs were used for light trap sampling. Specimens collected were brought to the University Museum of Central Mindanao University. A total of 20 species distributed to 10 genera in 4 tribes was recorded. At least 8 species are endemic to the Philippines, i.e., Ambulyx bakeri, Ambulyx. staudengeri, Ambulyx johnsoni, Amplypterus panopus mindanaoensis, Meganoton rufescens philippinensis, Acosmeryx socrates, Cechenena transpacifica and Theretra manilae. Uncontrolled anthropogenic activities around the Mount Malimumu of Pantaron Mountain Range such as slash and burn, conversion of forest land to farmlands and overcollection of host plants may threaten these species.