Acronicta rubricoma
Guenée, 1852
Hackberry Dagger, ruddy dagger moth
Acronicta rubricoma, commonly known as the Hackberry Dagger or ruddy dagger , is a noctuid moth found in eastern and central North America. The has a wingspan of 38–44 mm. are active from April to October with two per year. The larvae feed on elm, hackberry, and sumac.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Acronicta rubricoma: /æˈkrɒnɪktə ruːbrɪˈkoʊmə/
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Identification
Wingspan 38–44 mm. Distinguished from similar dagger moths in the Acronicta by geographic range and larval associations. Specific wing pattern details for distinguishing this from are not documented in available sources.
Images
Habitat
Associated with containing plants: elm, hackberry, and sumac. These include deciduous woodlands, forest edges, and riparian areas where these tree occur.
Distribution
Eastern and central North America: from southern Ontario and New York south to central Florida, west to Texas and eastern Kansas.
Seasonality
on wing from April to October depending on location. Two per year.
Diet
Larvae feed on elm (Ulmus), hackberry (Celtis), and sumac (Rhus). feeding habits not documented.
Life Cycle
Two per year. Complete with , larva, pupa, and stages. Detailed timing and stage not specified in sources.
Ecological Role
Larval herbivore on deciduous trees and shrubs. Specific ecological functions beyond herbivory not documented.
Similar Taxa
- Acronicta betulaeBirch Dagger moth, similar and appearance but associated with birch plants rather than elm, hackberry, and sumac
- Acronicta americanaAmerican Dagger moth, larger with different larval coloration and plant associations including maple and box elder