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Splendid dagger moth

Splendid dagger moth

Acronicta superans

A species of Dagger moths

Acronicta superans, the splendid dagger moth, is a moth of the family Noctuidae. The species was first described by Achille Guenée in 1852. It is found in North America from Newfoundland west to the foothills of Alberta, south to eastern Kentucky. It appears to have extended its range westward into Alberta recently. The wingspan is 40–45 mm. Adults are on wing from May to August depending on the location. The larvae feed on the leaves of apple, birch, cherry, hazel, hawthorn, maple, mountain-ash, pear, plum and serviceberry.

General Info About Splendid dagger moth
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Attributes of Splendid dagger moth
Colors
Black
Gray
White
Habitat
deciduous forest; mixed wood forest; shrub land; urban plantation
Adult Food Sources
Floral nectar, honeydew, tree sap, fruit juices, decaying organic matter
Larva Food Source
Leaves of deciduous trees, leaves of shrubs, leaf litter, bark (occasionally, when leaves are scarce), herbaceous vegetation
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Splendid dagger moth feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Splendid dagger moth
Widespread
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Distribution Area of Splendid dagger moth
North America
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Life Cycle of Splendid dagger moth
Egg The egg phase for splendid dagger moth commences the life cycle, where eggs are laid on host plants and are minute, spherical, and often pale colored, serving as a static developmental phase.
Larva Following egg hatch, the larvae or caterpillars of splendid dagger moth emerge, characterized by a voracious appetite and rapid growth. This stage sees several molts, with significant size increases and minor color variations.
Pupal During the pupal stage, splendid dagger moth is encased in a chrysalis, undergoing a remarkable transformation. Size remains constant, but internal reorganization drastically alters future form and function.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult splendid dagger moth's development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction.
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Predators of Splendid dagger moth Larvae
Birds, centipedes, reptiles, rodents, larger insects, spiders
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Predators of Adult Splendid dagger moth
Bats, birds, spiders, rodents, small mammals
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Scientific Classification of Splendid dagger moth
Tips for Finding Splendid dagger moth
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Youth Habitat of Splendid dagger moth
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Adult Habitat of Splendid dagger moth
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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How Can You Attract Splendid dagger moth
Since splendid dagger moth is a moth species in its adult form, they are attracted to light sources at night. Sweet baits or artificial pheromones may also be used to attract them for trapping purposes.
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Habitat Preferences of Splendid dagger moth Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of splendid dagger moth are typically found on the undersides of leaves of the host plants, which are often trees or shrubs. After hatching, the caterpillars can be found on the foliage, where they feed and grow. A search for these caterpillars should include inspecting leaves for signs of damage or the presence of frass. Pupae of splendid dagger moth usually develop in a cocoon hidden in leaf litter on the ground, hence searching for them involves carefully sifting through debris under the host plants. Adult splendid dagger moth are nocturnal and might be observed resting on tree trunks or near light sources after dark.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Splendid dagger moth
For adult splendid dagger moth, the best time to find them is during nighttime, as they are nocturnal. For earlier stages, such as caterpillars, daytime searches when they are active and feeding are more fruitful.
Are Splendid dagger moth harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Splendid dagger moth
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Hurt Plant

Splendid dagger moth in its larval stage feeds on the foliage of various plants. The feeding activity often results in defoliation, which can vary from mild to severe, influencing the plant's ability to photosynthesize and potentially leading to reduced growth or even death.

More Effects of Splendid dagger moth

Beneficial Effects of Splendid dagger moth
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Shape
Splendid dagger moth assists in pollination primarily through feeding on the pollen of flowers. It's attracted by the color and shape of the blooms it visits. An interesting aspect of this species' role in pollination is that the process is a beneficial byproduct of its feeding activity.
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