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Dark sword-grass

Dark sword-grass

Agrotis ipsilon

A species of Agrotis, Also known as Ipsilon dart moth, Ipsilon dart, Floodplain cutworm

The dark sword-grass (Agrotis ipsilon) earned that name from its darker color and its ability to cut down a variety of vegetation. As a result, they can be called the Black cutworm. Another unique feature is the female's calling abilities. As they get older, females need to start to call earlier in order to appear more attractive than their younger counterparts.

General Info About Dark sword-grass
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Attributes of Dark sword-grass
Colors
Brown
Black
Gray
Habitat
farmland
Adult Food Sources
Nectar, honeydew, sap exudates, fruit juices, water
Larva Food Source
Leaves, stems, flowers, fruits, crops (e.g., wheat, corn)
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Dark sword-grass is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Dark sword-grass is often found near the corolla, where its fluffy hairs easily pick up pollen, assisting in the pollination of the plant.
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Dark sword-grass feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
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Species Status of Dark sword-grass
It is a small noctuid moth found worldwide.
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Distribution Area of Dark sword-grass
United States, Europe, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, South Africa, South America, Pacific
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Predators of Dark sword-grass Larvae
Frogs and toads, birds, rodents, predatory beetles, arachnids, parasitic wasps
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Predators of Adult Dark sword-grass
Bats, birds, rodents, spiders, mantises
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Interesting Facts About Dark sword-grass
At night, dark sword-grass engage in 'nuptial flights,' a ritual where males and females perform complex aerial displays before mating.
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Scientific Classification of Dark sword-grass
Tips for Finding Dark sword-grass
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Youth Habitat of Dark sword-grass
Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas
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Adult Habitat of Dark sword-grass
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Freshwater Habitats, Deserts and Arid Regions, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Mountains and Alpine Regions, Savannas
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When is the Best Time to Observe Dark sword-grass
The suitable time for finding dark sword-grass varies with its life cycle stage; larvae may be found throughout their feeding period before pupation, whereas adults would be more commonly found during their mating flights at night.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Dark sword-grass
Mild, warm evenings are typically the best condition to find adult dark sword-grass, as cooler temperatures can limit their activity. Larvae can often be found after rainfall when they are more likely to come to the surface of the soil.
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How and Where Can You Find Dark sword-grass at Different Life Stages
Egg Eggs of dark sword-grass are typically laid on the underside of leaves of their host plants. Look for them by examining both sides of leaves, particularly on plants that are known to be preferred by dark sword-grass.
Larva Larvae of dark sword-grass can be found on or near their food plants, often below the ground during the day and surface feeding at night. Look for signs of feeding damage on plants or gently dig around the base of plants at night.
Pupal Dark sword-grass pupates in the soil near its food source. Locate pupae by carefully digging in the soil to a few inches deep where feeding damage from larvae is evident.
Adult Adult dark sword-grass are nocturnal and are attracted to lights, so using a light trap at night is an effective way to find them. Pheromone traps are also a method to attract and find adult males specifically.
Are Dark sword-grass harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Dark sword-grass
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Agricultural Pests

Larvae of dark sword-grass pose a significant threat to agriculture, attacking roots, stems, and leaves. Feeding primarily at night, even a small number can cause noticeable defoliation, while larger infestations can lead to severe crop loss. The presence of dark sword-grass can indirectly affect humans by diminishing crop yields and quality.

More Effects of Dark sword-grass

Beneficial Effects of Dark sword-grass
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Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Smell
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar, Collect Pollen To Feed Offspring
Dark sword-grass is active during twilight and night, being drawn to various flowering plants with a clear preference for Asteraceae. While feeding on nectar and pollen, dark sword-grass inadvertently picks up pollen on their body and transfers it to other flowers, aiding in the cross-pollination of many plant species.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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