Xestia dolosa
Franclemont, 1980
Greater Black-letter Dart, Woodland Spotted Cutworm, Spotted Cutworm
Xestia dolosa is a noctuid native to North America with three reflecting its appearance and larval habit: greater black-letter dart, woodland spotted cutworm, and spotted cutworm. are medium-sized with a wingspan near 40 mm. The exhibits in southern and patterns in the north. Larvae are agricultural pests feeding on diverse crop plants and woody vegetation.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Xestia dolosa: //ˈzɛs.ti.ə doʊˈloʊ.sə//
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Identification
have a wingspan of approximately 40 mm. The "greater black-letter dart" refers to forewing markings; "spotted cutworm" refers to larval appearance. The name "spotted cutworm" is shared with Xestia c-nigrum, requiring care in identification.
Images
Distribution
North America from New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island south to Florida, west to Texas, and north to North Dakota and Manitoba.
Seasonality
fly May to October in two in the South; July to August in one generation in the North.
Diet
Larvae feed on barley, clovers, corn, tobacco, apples, and maples.
Human Relevance
Larvae are crop pests damaging barley, corn, tobacco, and other cultivated plants.
Similar Taxa
- Xestia c-nigrumShares the "spotted cutworm" for its larvae; careful identification required to distinguish the