Gamma Looper
Common NameGamma Looper
Scientific NameAutoplusia gammoides
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyPlusiinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, silver
HabitatAgricultural fields, gardens, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeSouth America (e.g., Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay, Chile)
Host Plantsalfalfa, soybean, sunflower, potato, cotton, various vegetables and weeds
Flight PeriodYear-round in warmer climates, multiple generations
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants; larvae are green semi-loopers with pale stripes; pupation occurs in a silken cocoon, often on the host plant.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive iridescent silvery-white 'gamma' or 'Y' mark on the mottled brown and grey forewings, along with its robust, hairy body.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled brown and grey forewings, characterized by a prominent, iridescent silvery-white gamma-shaped mark; the body is robust and hairy.
