Silkmoths and more: Philotherma sordida

The caterpillars of the African Philotherma sordida are among the faster growing Lappets. Within approximately six to seven weeks they are full grown. The fresh leaves of the black cherry (Prunus serotina) probably had a lot to do with it. This species simply thrives on Rosaceae. Probably they are fairly polyphage, even though the sole African records I could find were of Ipomoea and Sapium. Nevertheless, Prunus and other Rosaceae are abundantly available to many people and work great. Keep them warm in well ventilated, plastic containers. Avoid moist of all kinds and keep clean. Otherwise the rearing is pretty straightforward and easy. The most difficult part is to prevent your pupae from drying out during hot summer months or when your central heating is on during autumn and winter. The pupae are best kept at living room temperature all the time. A higher humidity late winter, early spring will trigger the moths to emerge.