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Darksided Cutworm

Darksided Cutworm

Euxoa messoria

A species of Seton lake dart

Euxoa messoria, the darksided cutworm or reaper dart, is a moth of the family Noctuidae. The species was first described by Thaddeus William Harris in 1841. It is found from Newfoundland west to Yukon, south to Virginia and Missouri in the east and New Mexico, Arizona and California in the west. The wingspan is 32–36 mm. The moth flies from July to September depending on the location. There is one generation per year. The larvae feed on the leaves of apple, cultivated vegetables and flowers, as well as various other plants.

General Info About Darksided Cutworm
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Attributes of Darksided Cutworm
Colors
Brown
Black
Yellow
Gray
Habitat
open habitat; open ponderosa pine forest; juniper woodland; moist sagebrush steppe near wetland
Adult Food Sources
Flower nectar, aster, goldenrod, lilac, phlox
Larva Food Source
Grasses, wheat, barley, rye, oats
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Darksided Cutworm
Common and widely distributed
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Predators of Darksided Cutworm Larvae
Birds, rodents, parasitic wasps, parasitic flies
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Predators of Adult Darksided Cutworm
Bats, birds, small mammals, spiders
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Interesting Facts About Darksided Cutworm
Darksided Cutworm is able to adjust its internal chemistry to protect itself from freezing in sub-zero temperatures.
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Scientific Classification of Darksided Cutworm
Tips for Finding Darksided Cutworm
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Youth Habitat of Darksided Cutworm
Grasslands and Prairies, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Habitat Preferences of Darksided Cutworm Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of darksided Cutworm are typically laid on host plants close to the ground. As caterpillars, they are found on or near their food sources, which often include various grasses and low-lying vegetation. Seeking the caterpillars would involve searching the base of plants and the soil surface at night, as they are nocturnal feeders. The pupae reside underground, hence, locating them requires digging in the soil in areas where caterpillars are commonly seen. Adult darksided Cutworm are most often found in areas abundant with flowers or agricultural fields since they feed on nectar and are attracted to these locations for mating.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Darksided Cutworm
The best time to find darksided Cutworm would generally be at dusk or during the night when adult moths are typically most active. For finding eggs or larvae, daytime observations may be more productive.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Darksided Cutworm
Searching for darksided Cutworm should ideally be done on dry nights with little to no wind, as these conditions are favorable for moth activity. Additionally, monitoring during the warm season when the species undergoes its flight period is advisable.
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How and Where Can You Find Darksided Cutworm at Different Life Stages
Egg Darksided Cutworm eggs are usually laid on host plants. Look for tiny, round or ovate eggs on the undersides of leaves or near flower buds of the identified host plants during the day.
Larva Darksided Cutworm larvae or caterpillars can be found by inspecting host plants for chewing damage or frass (caterpillar droppings) and then looking on or near the damaged area. Larvae may also be found by gently shaking branches or using a beating tray.
Pupal Darksided Cutworm pupae can be sought in the soil or leaf litter near host plants, as many Noctuid moths pupate underground or in concealed locations at or near the ground level.
Adult Darksided Cutworm adults are moths that are attracted to light and may be found using a light trap at night, or searched for during the day when they are resting on surfaces near light sources or vegetation.
Are Darksided Cutworm harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Darksided Cutworm
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Agricultural Pests

Larvae of darksided Cutworm can cause mild to severe damage to wheat, barley, and oats by chewing on stems, leaves, and seeds. This impedes plant growth, reduces yields, and can lead to crop failure in severe infestations. The pest’s activity may increase food prices and impact food supply.

More Effects of Darksided Cutworm

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