Condica vecors
Guenée, 1852
Dusky Groundling
Condica vecors, commonly known as the Dusky Groundling, is a noctuid first described by Achille Guenée in 1852. It is widely distributed across eastern and central North America, ranging from Newfoundland to Florida and westward to Arizona. The species is , with two per year, and is active from spring through late summer depending on latitude.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Condica vecors: /ˈkɒn.dɪ.kə ˈveɪ.kɔːrz/
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Identification
Distinguished from similar Condica by its relatively plain, unpatterned forewings lacking strong lines or spots. The combination of small size, dull brownish-gray coloration, and geographic range helps separate it from C. sutor and other . Genitalia examination may be required for definitive identification.
Images
Appearance
Wingspan 29–38 mm. Forewings brownish-gray with variable darker shading; hindwings pale grayish-white with darker margins. Overall coloration is dull and unmarked, contributing to its 'dusky' .
Distribution
Eastern and central North America: Newfoundland to Florida, west to Arizona, north to Ontario.
Seasonality
May to August in northern range; April to October in southern range. Two per year throughout range.
Diet
Larvae feed on Eupatorium (boneset) and lettuce (Lactuca sativa). feeding habits unknown.
Host Associations
- Eupatorium - larval plant
- Lactuca sativa - larval plantcultivated lettuce
Life Cycle
with two annually. stage not specified in available sources.
Human Relevance
Minor agricultural pest: larvae feed on cultivated lettuce. Otherwise of limited economic significance.
Similar Taxa
- Condica sutorSimilar size and coloration; distinguished by more patterned forewings with distinct lines and spots
- Other Condica speciesRequire genitalia dissection or detailed wing pattern analysis for separation
More Details
Taxonomic history
Described by Achille Guenée in 1852; has remained in Condica without significant taxonomic revision.