Looper Moths

Plusiinae

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Plusiinae: /pluˈsi.iˌnai/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Ctenoplusia oxygramma P1130868a by 
xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
- 8886 – Enigmogramma basigera – Pink-washed Looper Moth (48043871986) by Andy Reago & Chrissy McClarren. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.
Argyrogramma verruca P1310022a by 
xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Ctenoplusia oxygramma P1130880a by 
xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
EnigmoBas5 by Douglas Goldman. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
CATALOGUE-BM-PLATE CCXXXVII by Sir GEORGE F. HAMPSON, Bart.. Used under a Public domain license.

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.

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