Dark Mottled Willow
Common NameDark Mottled Willow
Scientific NameSpodoptera cilium
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHadeninae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, yellow
HabitatGrasslands, cultivated fields, coastal areas, disturbed habitats
Geographic RangeTropical and subtropical Africa, Asia, Australia, Pacific islands
Host Plantsrice, maize, sugarcane, various grasses and sedges
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, multiple broods in warmer temperate zones
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are polyphagous cutworms or armyworms, feeding on a wide variety of grasses and crops. Pupation occurs in the soil. The species is multivoltine, having multiple generations per year in suitable climates.
Identification TipsKey features for identification include the mottled brown forewings with two distinct, often yellowish, pale stigmata (spots) and the overall robust body typical of *Spodoptera* species. The hindwings are usually plain and lighter in color.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled brown to greyish-brown forewings, featuring two prominent pale, often yellowish, spots (orbicular and reniform stigmata) and a darker subterminal line. The hindwings are typically plain whitish or pale grey.
