Frangipani Caterpillar (Tetrio Sphinx)

Natural Habitat

Tropical and subtropical regions, specifically forests and gardens where Frangipani (Plumeria) trees grow.

Diet & Feeding

Leaves of Frangipani trees (Plumeria), Allamanda, and other members of the dogbane family (Apocynaceae).

Behavior Patterns

Gregarious feeders that can rapidly defoliate entire trees. They use their bright aposematic (warning) coloration to signal toxicity to predators. They pupate in loose cocoons on the ground under leaf litter.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Can be a significant pest to ornamental Frangipani trees; their bite is not dangerous to humans but they can cause skin irritation if handled. Benefits: Serve as food for certain specialized predators and mature into a large, impressive moth that acts as a nocturnal pollinator.

Identified on: 2/14/2026