Looper Moths
Plusiinae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Lepidoptera
- Superfamily: Noctuoidea
- Family: Noctuidae
- Subfamily: Plusiinae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Plusiinae: /pluˈsi.iˌnai/
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Images






Summary
Plusiinae is a subfamily of moths in the family Noctuidae, distinguished by their unique morphology and herbivorous larvae. Their status within the Noctuidae family may change as more phylogenetic studies are conducted.
Physical Characteristics
Plusiinae are considered smallish for noctuid standards, possessing distinctive wing shapes and patterns that vary among species.
Identification Tips
Key identification features include the unique wing structures and coloration patterns, as well as genital and larval morphology which are helpful in distinguishing between species.
Habitat
Plusiinae can be found in a variety of habitats including forests, grasslands, and agricultural areas where their host plants are available.
Distribution
They are distributed across various regions, with notable species found in North America, particularly in areas such as California and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Diet
The larvae (caterpillars) of Plusiinae are primarily herbivorous, feeding on a range of plants, particularly those in agricultural settings.
Life Cycle
The life cycle of Plusiinae typically involves egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages, with larvae being notable for their looping movement.
Reproduction
Information on specific reproductive strategies in Plusiinae is limited, but like many moths, they likely undergo mating after which females lay eggs on host plants.
Predators
Natural predators include birds, parasitic wasps, and other insects that feed on larvae or adults.
Ecosystem Role
Plusiinae contribute to the ecosystem as herbivores, serving as prey for various predators and also participating in pollination activities.
Economic Impact
Some species may be considered pests in agricultural systems due to their feeding habits on crops, implicating economic consequences for farmers.
Collecting Methods
- Light trapping
- Netting larvae on host plants
- Using bait traps
Preservation Methods
- Pinning
- Alcohol preservation
- Freezing
Evolution
The evolutionary status of Plusiinae is under review due to the paraphyletic nature of the Noctuidae family, and they may be elevated to family status in the future.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
There may be a misconception that all noctuid moths are large; Plusiinae are relatively small compared to other noctuids.
Tags
- Lepidoptera
- Noctuidae
- Plusiinae
- Looper Moths