Formosa Looper Moth
Common NameFormosa Looper Moth
Scientific NameArgyrogramma formosa
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyPlusiinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsbrown, black, white, grey
HabitatGardens, agricultural fields, open woodlands, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeTropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, Australia, and parts of the Americas
Host Plantssoybean, groundnut, cotton, tobacco, various legumes and herbaceous plants
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; warmer months in subtropical areas
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are typically green semi-loopers that feed on a wide range of herbaceous plants before pupating.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinct wavy, contrasting bands of black, white, and brown on the forewings, particularly the prominent dark band near the outer margin, and its typical resting posture with wings held somewhat tent-like.
Description
A small moth with intricately patterned forewings featuring wavy bands of contrasting black, white, and various shades of brown, giving it a somewhat shaggy and cryptic appearance.
