Occurrence Data for Ampelophaga rubiginosa in Beijing Daxing District Released on GBIF

Recently, the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) has published a citizen science observation data for the Ampelophaga rubiginosa, commonly known as the grapevine hawk moth, from Beijing's Daxing District. This data was reported by Samantha Ma to the GBIF WG at the China Biodiversity Conservation and Green Development Foundation. Special thanks are due to experts Liu Yusheng, Wu Liye, Gao Shangkun, and Linda Wong for their support in species identification.

Distribution range. Image source: GBIF

The Ampelophaga rubiginosa is a large and uniquely shaped moth with a diverse range of host plants. In addition to grapes, it also feeds on plants such as the yellowthorn and the bramble. This species is widely distributed across China, Japan, North Korea, and other regions.

The life cycle of the grapevine hawk moth consists of four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The adult moths are primarily nocturnal and exhibit phototactic behavior. Female moths lay their eggs on the leaves or tender shoots of host plants. Upon hatching, the larvae begin to feed on the plant’s leaves, shoots, and even fruits. Mature larvae then burrow into the soil to pupate.

Adult moths typically measure 40-50 millimeters in body length, with a wingspan ranging from 85 to 100 millimeters. Their coloration is generally tea-brown, providing effective camouflage. The forewings often feature several transverse wave lines, while the hindwings are relatively plain. The pupae are bare and yellow-brown, usually overwintering in soil or beneath fallen branches and leaves.

The larvae go through several molts during their development, gradually increasing in size. Early-stage larvae are often green or yellow-green, and as they mature, their color darkens and distinct patterns develop. Fully grown larvae can reach lengths of 7-8 centimeters.

The GBIF is an international bioinformatics network and global biodiversity data infrastructure that aims to make data on all forms of life on Earth freely accessible to anyone, anywhere. The China Biodiversity Conservation and Green Development Foundation is the second official GBIF data publisher in China. Since joining GBIF in 2018, the GBIF team at the Foundation has been dedicated to serving researchers, citizen scientists, and conservationists, contributing data from nationwide Chinese societies to the field of biodiversity informatics.

Written by: Samantha  

Reviewed by: Linda  

[Reference]  

https://www.gbif.org/species/1863829

Contact: v10@cbcgdf.org; +8617319454776

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