Subterranean-feeder
Guides
Agrotis orthogonia
Pale Western Cutworm Moth, Pale Western Cutworm
Agrotis orthogonia, the Pale Western Cutworm Moth, is a noctuid moth native to dry regions of western North America. Its larvae are subterranean cutworms that feed on the stems of wheat and other small grains just below the soil surface, causing significant agricultural damage during outbreaks. The species prefers loose, sandy, dry, or dusty soils and is particularly associated with wheat production systems. Adult moths emerge in late summer and fall, with most eggs hatching in late winter or early spring.
Apamea devastator
glassy cutworm moth, glassy cutworm
Apamea devastator, commonly known as the glassy cutworm moth, is a noctuid moth of northeastern North America. The adult has a wingspan of 35–40 mm and flies from May to September. The larva is a subterranean cutworm that feeds on grasses, attacking roots and basal stems. The species is economically significant as a pest of turfgrass and agricultural grasses.
Euxoa detersa
Rubbed Dart, Sandhill Cutworm, Sand Cutworm
Euxoa detersa is a noctuid moth commonly known as the rubbed dart, sandhill cutworm, or sand cutworm. The species was described by Francis Walker in 1856 and occurs across northern and eastern North America. Adults are nocturnal and active from July to October, with a single generation annually. The larvae are subterranean cutworms that construct burrows to feed on underground plant parts, making them particularly destructive in sandy agricultural soils.
Pangaeus bilineatus
peanut burrower bug, Two-lined Burrowing Bug
Pangaeus bilineatus, commonly known as the peanut burrower bug, is a soil-dwelling true bug in the family Cydnidae. It is a major agricultural pest of peanut crops in the southeastern United States, where it causes significant economic damage by feeding underground on developing peanut kernels. The species exhibits a single generation per year in most regions, with adults entering diapause in soil during winter months. Its subterranean lifestyle renders conventional foliar pesticide applications ineffective, necessitating specialized integrated pest management approaches.