Which moth genus contains the death’s-head hawkmoth Acherontia atropos?

Acherontia is the moth genus that contains Acherontia atropos, the death’s-head hawkmoth.

The genus is named after Acheron, a river associated with the underworld in Greek mythology. Its members are large hawkmoths in the family Sphingidae and are known for a skull-like thoracic marking. Acherontia atropos is the African death’s-head hawkmoth and has also appeared in parts of Europe as a migrant or temporary resident.

The genus contains three recognised species: Acherontia atropos, Acherontia styx, and Acherontia lachesis. Their larvae feed on plants in several families, especially nightshades, and the adults have robust bodies suited to strong flight.

The name is often mixed up with the common name “death’s-head hawkmoth,” which can refer to the genus or to individual species. Manduca is another hawkmoth genus, but it contains species such as the tobacco hornworm moth rather than Acherontia.