Agrotis
Agrotis
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Lepidoptera
- Superfamily: Noctuoidea
- Family: Noctuidae
- Subfamily: Noctuinae
- Tribe: Noctuini
- Subtribe: Agrotina
- Genus: Agrotis
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Agrotis: /əˈɡroʊtɪs/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Agrotis is a genus of moths in the family Noctuidae, known for its economically significant larvae that act as cutworms. The genus includes several species, some of which are extinct and has been important in agricultural contexts.
Physical Characteristics
Proboscis well developed. Palpi obliquely porrect with the second joint evenly scaled and third joint prominent. Thorax and abdomen without tufts; abdomen somewhat flattened. Tibia very strongly spined. Forewings with non-crenulate outer margin. Hindwings have veins 3 and 4 emerging from the cell.
Identification Tips
Identified by their characteristic proboscis and wing structure.
Habitat
Primarily found in areas with vegetation suitable for their larvae, which typically hide during the day and feed at night.
Distribution
Twenty-three species identified in North America north of Mexico, with ten species in eastern Canada and thirteen in western Canada.
Diet
Larvae are known as cutworms and primarily feed on garden and crop plants, especially seedlings.
Life Cycle
Involves a larval stage (cutworm) that is particularly destructive to crops, transitioning through pupation to the adult moth stage.
Reproduction
Typical lepidopteran reproduction, involving the laying of eggs by females which hatch into larvae.
Predators
Predators include birds, parasitoid wasps, and other insectivorous animals.
Ecosystem Role
As cutworms, they play a significant role in soil health and plant community dynamics, albeit in a destructive manner by affecting crop growth.
Economic Impact
Considered agricultural pests due to the larvae's destructive feeding habits on crops.
Cultural Significance
The bogong moth is a seasonal food source for indigenous Australians, showcasing the cultural importance of certain Agrotis species.
Evolution
The genus was established by Ferdinand Ochsenheimer in 1816, with several species now reclassified under other genera.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Not all cutworms are from the Agrotis genus; it's often mistakenly thought that they are the only source of cutworms.
Tags
- moths
- Noctuidae
- cutworms
- agricultural pests
- biodiversity