Effect of Ligation on Cuticular Melanin Synthesis in Late Larvae of the Oleander Hawk Moth, Deilephila nerii1,2

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Abstract
Late larvae of the oleander hawk moth, Deilephila nerii (L.) (Sphingidae), develop a black color (melanin) on their dorsal abdominal regions 36–48 h before larvalpupal ecdysis. Ligation of the larvae at specific times (at least 24 h before color change but before pharate pupal development) will prevent pigment formation posterior to the ligature. Ligation 4–10 h before the color change has no effect. It is suggested that melanin synthesis in late larvae of this insect is initiated by blood-borne factors, with the brain perhaps playing a major role in the color change.