Dogbane Stem Borer Moth
Common NameDogbane Stem Borer Moth
Scientific NameApamea apamiformis
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyXyleninae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsbrown, orange, white
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, disturbed areas, and roadsides where dogbane grows
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia west to Manitoba and south to Florida and Texas
Host PlantsApocynum cannabinum, Apocynum androsaemifolium
Flight PeriodJune to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are stem borers, feeding internally within the stems of dogbane plants. Pupation occurs in the soil, and there is typically one generation per year.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive pattern of white spots on the forewings against a reddish-brown and orange background. Its association with dogbane plants is a strong indicator.
Description
This moth features mottled reddish-brown and orange-brown forewings, prominently marked with distinct white reniform and orbicular spots. Its robust body is covered in reddish-brown hairs.
