Minor Shoulder-knot
Common NameMinor Shoulder-knot
Scientific NameApamea anceps
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)38.5
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black, white
HabitatGrasslands, open woodlands, gardens, hedgerows, agricultural land
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia (e.g., Turkey, Caucasus, Central Asia)
Host PlantsPoa, Dactylis glomerata, Festuca, Elymus repens
Flight PeriodJune to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are pale brown with darker lines, feeding on the roots and stems of various grasses from late summer to spring. They pupate in an earthen cocoon underground.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive dark basal streak extending from the base of the forewing, the pale subterminal line, and the overall mottled grey-brown coloration with clearly defined stigmata, especially the reniform stigma which often has a darker outline.
Description
A medium-sized, cryptically patterned moth with forewings typically grey-brown, featuring a prominent dark basal streak, distinct orbicular and reniform stigmata, and a pale, wavy subterminal line.
