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Ghost moth

Ghost moth

Hepialus humuli

A species of Ghost moth, Also known as Ghost swift moth, Otter moth

The larva is whitish and maggot-like and feeds underground on the roots of a variety of wild and cultivated plants.

General Info About Ghost moth
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Attributes of Ghost moth
Colors
Yellow
White
Habitat
meadow; grassland
Larva Food Source
Plant roots, stems, decaying leaves, grasses, various herbaceous plants
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Ghost moth is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Ghost 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
Vestigial
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Species Status of Ghost moth
It is common throughout Europe, except for in the far south-east.
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Distribution Area of Ghost moth
Europe
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Life Cycle of Ghost moth
Egg The embryo inside the egg of the ghost moth undergoes development. The egg is typically round or oval, tiny, and may be laid in clusters. Its color can vary, often camouflaged with the environment.
Larva Upon hatching, the ghost moth larva, also referred to as a caterpillar, consumes foliage voraciously, growing rapidly. It’s elongated, with distinct segments and prolegs, and it molts several times, increasing in size and changing patterns.
Pupal The ghost moth enters the pupal stage, ceasing to eat and undergoing transformation within a protective casing, or cocoon. Here, it reorganizes its body completely, transitioning from larva to adult. The cocoon may blend with surroundings.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult ghost 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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Adult Size of Ghost moth
5 cm
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Predators of Ghost moth Larvae
Birds, rodents, insectivorous mammals, parasitoid wasps, parasitoid flies, predatory beetles
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Predators of Adult Ghost moth
Bats, birds, rodents
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Interesting Facts About Ghost moth
Ghost moth can project their caterpillars using a specialized silk
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Scientific Classification of Ghost moth
Tips for Finding Ghost moth
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Youth Habitat of Ghost moth
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Adult Habitat of Ghost moth
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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How Can You Attract Ghost moth
Adult ghost moth may be attracted to light sources. For larvae, pheromone traps or food traps with host plant material can be used.
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Habitat Preferences of Ghost moth Through Different Life Stages
The larvae of ghost moth are generally found underground, feeding on the roots of a variety of plants including grasses and nettles, so searching for them would involve carefully digging in these areas. Pupae typically remain in the soil, close to where the larvae fed, requiring a deeper search into the soil. Adults are mostly found in meadows, grasslands, and near woodland edges, especially around twilight when they are most active. Searching for adults would best be done during this time, perhaps with the aid of a light source to attract them.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Ghost moth
The best time to find adult ghost moth is at dusk or during the night when they are most active. Larvae and pupae stages are best searched for during the day in their respective habitats.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Ghost moth
Mild, humid conditions are most suitable for finding adult ghost moth, as extreme temperatures can cause them to be less active. For larvae and pupae, a warm and moist environment is ideal, helping them to thrive and be easier to locate.
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How and Where Can You Find Ghost moth at Different Life Stages
Adult Ghost moth adults are usually found flying at night near host plants or sources of light. To find them, use a light trap or go out with a flashlight during their active hours. Look for them near the ground or on vegetation.
Pupal Ghost moth pupae can often be found underground or in loose soil near their host plants. Search at the base of plants and carefully dig in the soil looking for the pupal cases, being sure not to harm them.
Larva Ghost moth larvae feed on plant roots, so they can be found by carefully uprooting host plants and examining the roots for their presence. Look for signs of feeding damage or silk threads, which can indicate their activity.
Egg Ghost moth eggs are laid on or near host plants. Inspect the underside of leaves or stems carefully for small, inconspicuous eggs during the laying season. Use a magnifying glass to help spot them.
Are Ghost moth harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Ghost moth
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Hurt Plant

Once ghost moth begins feeding, typically on the roots and stems, the host plants exhibit visible damage. The affected areas show signs of tissue destruction, resulting in stunted growth, wilting, and possible death of the plant due to the insect's voracious chewing. This pest predominantly targets grasses, bracken, and nettles, causing significant damage to these species.

More Effects of Ghost moth

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