Black-banded Brocade
Common NameBlack-banded Brocade
Scientific NameApamea apamiformis
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, black, yellowish-gold
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, meadows, wetlands
Geographic RangeEastern and central North America
Host PlantsPhragmites australis, various grasses
Flight PeriodJune to August
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are cutworms that feed on the stems and roots of grasses, particularly common reed. Pupation occurs in the soil, typically with one generation per year.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its mottled brown, grey, and yellowish-gold forewings with a prominent black median band and other dark markings. The overall cryptic pattern helps it blend into its environment.
Description
A medium-sized moth with cryptically mottled forewings in shades of brown, grey, and yellowish-gold, featuring prominent black markings including a distinct black median band.
