Rhabdomantis galatia
Rhabdomantis galatia
This was the first time I've encountered this Skipper. The common name is "Branded Large Fox".
Re: Rhabdomantis galatia
Is the vertical line an actual scent brand? I've never seen anything like that!
Re: Rhabdomantis galatia
Yeah, as far as I'm aware, it's unique among African leps.
Re: Rhabdomantis galatia
Well, male skippers are pretty vain when it come to how they smell. So anytime you see something wierd - it's probably a phermone delivery system. Males are all about scent glands, brands, stigmas, costal folds, HW pouches, and hair pencils on both wings and legs. I can picture some species that have 3 delivery mechanisms - and I'm sure there are species with four. And I bet that each of these deliver a different pheromone - if ever there was an interesting little research project for a graduate student - this would be a great one.
John
Re: Rhabdomantis galatia
Well, I'm still incredibly impressed.Jshuey wrote: ↑Mon Jul 24, 2023 1:10 pmWell, male skippers are pretty vain when it come to how they smell. So anytime you see something wierd - it's probably a phermone delivery system. Males are all about scent glands, brands, stigmas, costal folds, HW pouches, and hair pencils on both wings and legs. I can picture some species that have 3 delivery mechanisms - and I'm sure there are species with four. And I bet that each of these deliver a different pheromone - if ever there was an interesting little research project for a graduate student - this would be a great one.
John
Nor did I know that some skipper species have multiple phermone systems, no kidding.
The next time we're in the same place I'll be sure to grovel and avert my eyes.
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