Sweet Potato Armyworm Moth
Common NameSweet Potato Armyworm Moth
Scientific NameSpodoptera litura
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, white
HabitatAgricultural fields, gardens, disturbed areas, tropical and subtropical regions
Geographic RangeWidespread in Asia, Africa, Oceania, and parts of Europe (Mediterranean)
Host Plantssweet potato, cotton, tobacco, corn, cabbage, tomato, potato, beans, various legumes
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical climates; multiple generations from spring to autumn in temperate zones
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in clusters, often covered with scales. Larvae, known as armyworms, are polyphagous and feed gregariously, causing significant crop damage. Pupation occurs in the soil.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the specific intricate pattern of wavy dark and light lines on the forewings, the shape and color of the reniform and orbicular spots, and the generally plain, pale hindwings. Distinguishing from other *Spodoptera* species often requires close examination of these markings.
Description
A medium-sized moth with cryptic brown, grey, and white forewings featuring intricate wavy lines, reniform and orbicular spots, and a pale subterminal line. The hindwings are typically plain whitish or pale grey.
