Mocis

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Mocis: /ˈmo.kis/

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Summary

Mocis is a genus of moths in the family Erebidae known for their larvae, referred to as grass loopers. They exhibit a variety of colors and patterns and inhabit open areas primarily in the southeastern United States. They have significant agricultural relevance as pests and show interesting behavior in their response to threats by blending into their environment rather than fleeing vigorously.

Physical Characteristics

Wingspan 33-50 mm; larvae up to 60 mm. Adult forewing variably yellowish, brown, pale grayish, or violet-brown; hindwing yellowish-brown to grayish, often with noticeable PM line. Larva recognized by intersegmental dorsal black spots, yellowish-brown body with chocolate subdorsal and subventral stripes, wide yellowish-brown lateral area often divided by narrow dark brown stripe.

Identification Tips

Larvae cannot be reliably identified to species; however, key characteristics include the presence of intersegmental dorsal black spots and coloration; adults may vary significantly in wing color.

Habitat

Fields, marshes, grasslands, mesquite scrub, and other open areas.

Distribution

Mostly found in the southeastern United States, with specific species ranging from Florida to as far north as New York and Ontario, and some species also in Cuba and Australia.

Diet

Larvae feed on forage and pasture grasses, as well as corn, rice, sorghum, sugarcane, and may also feed on beans and turnips.

Life Cycle

Multiple generations per year; larvae present year-round in the far south, overwintering as a pupa.

Reproduction

Adults fly from April to November, or all year in the far south; larvae active from May onward, or all year in southern Florida and Texas.

Ecosystem Role

Mocis species play a role in the food web as herbivores and may be preyed upon by various insectivorous animals.

Economic Impact

Some species may affect agriculture due to their feeding habits on important crops such as corn and rice.

Evolution

The genus Mocis was erected by Jacob Hübner in 1823.

Misconceptions

There may be a misconception that all larvae can be easily identified, while in reality, many cannot be reliably distinguished to species level due to their similar appearances.

Tags

• Lepidoptera
• Erebidae
• Moths
• Agricultural pests
• Grass Loopers