black turnip moth
Common Nameblack turnip moth
Scientific NameAgrotis ipsilon
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)47.5
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsblack, dark grey
HabitatAgricultural fields, gardens, grasslands, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeCosmopolitan (worldwide except Antarctica)
Host Plantscorn, cotton, tobacco, various vegetables, grasses, clover
Flight PeriodMultiple generations, active throughout warmer months (varies by region)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae, known as cutworms, feed at night on plant stems near the soil surface, often cutting young plants. They pupate in the soil, and the species typically has multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsLook for the overall dark coloration, the prominent black dart-like streak on the forewings, and the dark reniform and orbicular spots, which can be somewhat indistinct against the dark background.
Description
A medium-sized, robust moth with dark grey to black forewings featuring subtle, darker reniform and orbicular spots and a distinct black dart-like streak extending from the base.
