Environmental factors affecting the presence of the Sphinx moth, Hyles lineata in Southern California

Water is a primary source for all, whether it pertains to an animal, human being or insect. Many insects can deal with environmental humidity changes by either tolerating body water loss or by finding ways to conserve body water. When environmental humidity is high, insects have found a way to conserve water by restricting their activities during this time. Hyles lineata belonging to the Sphingidae family is a moth with little known about their high environmental humidity level. How does environmental humidity affect the presence of the Hyles lineata? This moth specie has been observed in various regions in Southern California. The moth has been specifically found within the regions of Los Angeles and Ventura Countries. Although the moths have been collected in these areas, little is known of their abundance. We propose that their abundance is affected due to environmental humidity that occurs during different times throughout the year. To determine whether this is true, we will conduct field experiments where we will collect Hyles lineata and measure their abundance. We will record both temperature and humidity data in order to determine if there is correlation amongst the abundance and environmental conditions. Knowing more about Hyles lineata will open the doors to future studies that will help us understand the effect changes in environmental humidity, as a result of climate change, may have on insects.