Eugenia Caterpillar
Common NameEugenia Caterpillar
Scientific NameSpodoptera litura
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsbrown, reddish-brown, dark brown
HabitatAgricultural fields, gardens, disturbed areas, forests
Geographic RangeTropical and subtropical Asia, Africa, Oceania
Host Plantscotton, tobacco, castor, groundnut, soybean, tomato, cabbage, Eugenia spp.
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, multiple generations
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae, known as armyworms, are highly polyphagous, feeding on a wide variety of plants. Pupation occurs in the soil, and the species has multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsLook for the reddish-brown mottled forewings with prominent dark reniform and orbicular spots, and a robust body. Distinguishing from other closely related *Spodoptera* species often requires examination of subtle wing patterns or genitalia.
Description
A medium-sized, robust moth with reddish-brown forewings mottled with darker brown patches and distinct dark reniform and orbicular spots. The hindwings are typically paler and plainer.
