Lawn Armyworm Moth
Common NameLawn Armyworm Moth
Scientific NameSpodoptera mauritia
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)38
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, black, white
HabitatGrasslands, lawns, pastures, agricultural fields
Geographic RangeTropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, Australia, Pacific islands
Host Plantsgrasses, rice, maize, sugarcane, wheat
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae, known as armyworms, are significant agricultural pests that feed gregariously on various grasses before pupating in the soil.
Identification TipsLook for the mottled brown and grey forewings with distinct, often outlined, reniform and orbicular spots, and a pale, wavy subterminal line. A pale dash or streak is often visible on the forewing.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled brown and grey forewings, featuring prominent kidney-shaped (reniform) and circular (orbicular) spots, and a pale, wavy subterminal line.
