Super Cooling Point Phenotypes and Cold Resistance in Hyles euphorbiae Hawk Moths from Different Climate Zones

The spurge hawkmoth Hyles euphorbiae L. (Sphingidae) comprises a remarkable species complex with still not fully resolved taxonomy. Its extensive natural distribution range covers diverse climatic zones. This predestinates particular populations to cope different local seasonally unfavorable environmental conditions. ability of the pupae overcome outer frosty conditions is well known. However, differences between two main ecotypes (‘euphorbiae’ and ‘tithymali’) in terms inherent degree frost tolerance, its corresponding survival strategy, underlying mechanism have been studied detail so far. aim our study was test phenotypic exhibition (as relevant life cycle stadia outlast conditions) response combined effects exogenous stimuli, such as daylight length cooling regime. Namely, we tested turnout subitan (with fast development, unadapted or diapause (paused adapted external influences increased resistance) under conditions, their mortality, measured super point (SCP) whole (in vivo) pupal hemolymph vitro) indicators cold acclimation. Our results show higher sensitivity ‘tithymali’ populations, exhibiting rather opportunistic short-termed hardiness, while ‘euphorbiae’ produces phenotype seasonal cold-hardy effect short continuous treatment. Further include variability duration mortality pupae. suggests pre-adaptations each ecotype may indicate state incipient speciation within H. complex.