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Common fungus moth

Common fungus moth

Metalectra discalis

A species of Metalectra

Metalectra discalis, the common fungus moth, is a moth of the family Erebidae. The species was first described by Augustus Radcliffe Grote in 1876. It is found in North America from Wisconsin to Quebec and Maine, south to Florida, west to Texas and Missouri, north to Ontario. The wingspan is 20–29 mm. Adults are on wing from May to September in the south and from June to August in the north. There are probably two or more generations per year. Larvae have been recorded on bracket fungi and probably feed on other persistent fungi as well.

General Info About Common fungus moth
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Attributes of Common fungus moth
Colors
Black
Bronze
Gray
Habitat
deciduous forest; mixed forest
Adult Food Sources
Flower nectar, tree sap, rotting fruit, honeydew, bird droppings
Larva Food Source
Leaves of willow, poplar, alder, maple, oak
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Common fungus 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
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Common fungus moth
Common
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Distribution Area of Common fungus moth
North America
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Life Cycle of Common fungus moth
Egg The egg phase for common fungus moth involves small, often spherical or oval eggs laid in clusters or individually. At this initial stage, color and shape are adapted for concealment from predators.
Larva As larvae, common fungus moth resemble caterpillars with elongating, segmented bodies and varying color patterns for camouflage or warning. They focus on feeding and grow rapidly, shedding their skin multiple times.
Pupal During pupation, common fungus moth is encased in a chrysalis, ceasing to feed and move. Inside, drastic transformation occurs, reorganizing into the adult form, often with notable changes in color and size.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult common fungus 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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Interesting Facts About Common fungus moth
Unlike most moths, common fungus moth can emit short bursts of light from its body as a probable defense mechanism against predators.
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Scientific Classification of Common fungus moth
Tips for Finding Common fungus moth
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Youth Habitat of Common fungus moth
Forests and Woodlands, Rotting and Decaying Matter
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Adult Habitat of Common fungus moth
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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How Can You Attract Common fungus moth
A suitable bait for trapping adult common fungus moth, like many nocturnal moths, could include sweet substances such as fermented fruit or sugary solutions. These attractants take advantage of the moths' attraction to nectar-like odors.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Common fungus moth
Mild and humid nights without a full moon or strong winds are usually best for observing adult common fungus moth. Overcast conditions can also be favorable. For larvae, warm and dry days are usually best as they would be out feeding.
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How and Where Can You Find Common fungus moth at Different Life Stages
Egg Common fungus moth eggs are typically laid on host plants. Look for tiny, round or oval eggs on the undersides of leaves by careful inspection.
Larva The larval stage of common fungus moth can be found feeding on host plants. Search for them by looking for signs of feeding such as chewed leaves, frass (insect droppings), or silk webbing on plants.
Pupal Common fungus moth pupae may be found in loose soil, leaf litter, or among plant detritus. Gently sift through these materials or look for pupal cases attached to plant stems or leaves.
Adult To find adult common fungus moth, a nocturnal approach should be used. Employ light traps or bait stations with sweet substances at night. The adults are typically attracted to sources of light and may also be observed resting on surfaces near the light source come morning.
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