Soybean Looper Moth
Common NameSoybean Looper Moth
Scientific NameChrysodeixis includens
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyPlusiinae
Wingspan (mm)33
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, metallic gold, white
HabitatAgricultural fields, gardens, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeNorth America, Central America, South America
Host Plantssoybean, cotton, alfalfa, peanut, cabbage, celery, lettuce, potato, tomato
Flight PeriodMultiple generations year-round in tropical areas; May to October in temperate regions
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are green 'loopers' with white stripes, known for their characteristic looping movement. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon, often on the host plant.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive metallic gold or silver markings on the forewings, which can appear as a 'gamma' shape or two separate spots, against a mottled grey-brown background. The prominent thoracic tuft is also a key feature.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled grey-brown forewings, characterized by distinctive metallic gold or silver markings, often resembling a gamma symbol or a pair of spots, and a prominent tuft of scales on its thorax.
