Aster Borer Moth
Common NameAster Borer Moth
Scientific NamePapaipema impecuniosa
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAmphipyrinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsbrown, orange, yellow
HabitatWetlands, moist meadows, open woodlands, areas with host asters
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia west to Manitoba, and south to Florida and Texas
Host PlantsSymphyotrichum novae-angliae, Symphyotrichum
Flight PeriodLate August to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are stem borers, feeding inside the stems of aster plants. They pupate within the stem or in the soil.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its reddish-brown forewings with pale yellow, somewhat irregular spots, and its association with aster host plants, particularly in late summer and fall.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled reddish-brown forewings featuring distinctive irregular pale yellow spots and a darker basal area. Its body is robust and hairy.
