Hodges#11003.1
Noctua pronuba
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Lepidoptera
- Superfamily: Noctuoidea
- Family: Noctuidae
- Subfamily: Noctuinae
- Tribe: Noctuini
- Subtribe: Noctuina
- Genus: Noctua
- Species: pronuba
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Noctua pronuba: //ˈnɒk.tʃu.ə proʊˈnuː.bə//
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Images
Summary
Noctua pronuba, the Greater Yellow Underwing, is a moth known for its striking color patterns and considerable pest status, particularly during its larval stage. First introduced to North America in 1979, it has since expanded its range significantly, adapting well to various environments despite its agricultural impacts.
Physical Characteristics
Wingspan of 50–60 mm. Forewings vary from light brown to dark brown, grayish, or orangish, often with a pale streak along the costa. Hindwings are bright orange-yellow with a black sub-terminal band. Larvae are green or brown with two rows of black dashes along the back.
Identification Tips
Adults can be identified by their yellow hindwings with a black terminal band and variable forewings which can be light brown to dark brown with distinct patterns.
Habitat
Typically found in gardens and crops as the larvae are known garden pests. Also inhabits various open areas throughout their range.
Distribution
Native to Eurasia, introduced into North America at Nova Scotia; spread throughout much of the northeastern United States and parts of Canada since the 1980s.
Diet
Larvae feed on a variety of crops and vegetables, along with grasses. Known to cause damage to herbaceous plants by cutting them at the base.
Life Cycle
The species overwinters as a larva, feeding intermittently during mild winter days before pupating in the spring.
Reproduction
Details on specific reproductive habits are not provided.
Predators
Attracted to light, they also attract a variety of predators, including birds and bats, who may hunt them at night.
Ecosystem Role
Significant as both a pest in agricultural areas and a food source for their natural predators.
Economic Impact
The larval stage is considered a garden pest, causing damage to crops and home gardens.
Collecting Methods
- Light traps
- Netting during night flight
Preservation Methods
- Freezing
- Drying
- Pinning specimens
Misconceptions
These moths are often confused with other similar species, but key differences in wing patterns can help distinguish them.
Tags
- moth
- Noctuidae
- pest
- larvae
- biogeography