Metaxaglaea viatica
(Grote, 1874)
Roadside Sallow, Roadside Sallow Moth
Metaxaglaea viatica, commonly known as the Roadside Sallow or Roadside Sallow , is a noctuid moth native to eastern and central North America. It is notable for its extended activity period spanning late autumn through winter, with adults recorded on wing from September to March. The species has a wingspan of approximately 50 mm. Larvae feed on woody plants in the rose , including apple, crab apple, mountain ash, and cherry.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Metaxaglaea viatica: //ˌmɛt.æks.əˈɡliː.ə ˌvaɪˈætɪkə//
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Identification
active during autumn and winter months (September–March) distinguish this from most temperate North American noctuids, which are primarily spring and summer fliers. The 50 mm wingspan and association with Rosaceae plants provide additional identifying characteristics. Specific wing pattern details are not documented in available sources.
Images
Distribution
Eastern and central North America, recorded from Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.
Seasonality
recorded on wing from September to March, indicating late autumn through winter activity.
Diet
Larvae feed on apple (Malus), crab apple (Malus), mountain ash (Sorbus), and cherry (Prunus), all members of Rosaceae.
Host Associations
- Malus - larval food plantapple and crab apple
- Sorbus - larval food plantmountain ash
- Prunus - larval food plantcherry
Life Cycle
Larval stage feeds on Rosaceae plants. stage occurs from September to March. Specific details regarding , pupal stages, and strategy are not documented.