Sugar Cane Armyworm
Common NameSugar Cane Armyworm
Scientific NameMythimna separata
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHadeninae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorstan, brown
HabitatAgricultural fields, grasslands, open areas
Geographic RangeEast Asia, Southeast Asia, Australia, Pacific Islands
Host Plantssugarcane, rice, corn, wheat, various grasses
Flight PeriodMultiple generations per year, active year-round in tropical regions
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe lifecycle involves eggs laid on host plants, larvae (armyworms) that are highly polyphagous pests, pupation in the soil, and adult moths that are nocturnal and migratory.
Identification TipsLook for the characteristic pale brown forewings with distinct dark longitudinal streaks and a small white discal spot. The larvae are green to brown with stripes, known for their 'army-like' marching behavior.
Description
This moth has pale tan to light brown forewings with prominent dark brown longitudinal streaks, especially along the veins and a central dash. The hindwings are typically paler, often a uniform off-white or light grey.
