Features of cultivation of the deadhead hawk moth Acherontia atropos (Linnaeus, 1758) on artificial nutrient media

Abstract

The results of testing of the method of cultivation of the deadhead hawk moth Acherontia atropos (Linnaeus, 1758) using solid culture medium are given in this article. Optimal cultivation conditions for all caterpillar stages of this species are discussed. Information about bacterial infection of caterpillars which is caused by Gram-negative rod-shaped bacterial flora, is also noted in the results. Methods of treatment of this bacterial infection were selected empirically and also given use of bactericidal antibiotics (ceftriaxone) and selenopiran. We also trialled the use of a similar method of cultivation on some specific media for rare species of Lepidoptera like Proserpinus proserpina, Eudia pavonia, Saturnia pyri and some other species.