Sugarcane Looper
Common NameSugarcane Looper
Scientific NameMocis undata
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)38
Primary Colorslight brown, dark brown, tan
HabitatAgricultural fields, grasslands, open disturbed areas
Geographic RangeAfrica, Asia, Australia (tropical and subtropical regions)
Host Plantssugarcane, rice, maize, various grasses
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical climates
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are 'looper' caterpillars, typically green or brown with longitudinal stripes, feeding on grasses. They pupate in a cocoon in the soil or among leaf litter.
Identification TipsKey features include the two prominent dark discal spots and the distinct wavy dark postmedian line on the forewings, set against a light brown background.
Description
A medium-sized moth with light brown to tan forewings featuring two distinct dark discal spots and a prominent dark, wavy postmedian line. The hindwings are similar in color with a less distinct dark band.
