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Common swift moth

Pharmacis lupulina

A species of Pharmacis

The common swift (Korscheltellus lupulina) is a moth of the family Hepialidae. It was previously placed in the genus Hepialus. It is a common, often abundant European species. The species was first described by Carl Linnaeus in his 1758 10th edition of Systema Naturae. The male has a wingspan of about 30 mm with dark brown forewings with white apical and basal streaks meeting to make a "V" shape with another spot close to the costa. The hindwings are plain brown. The female is larger (wingspan about 40 mm) with similar patterning to the male but generally paler and less distinct. A significant proportion of individuals of both sexes are plain buff or brown with no pattern. The adults fly from May to July and are attracted to light. The species overwinters as a larva. The larvae feed underground on the roots of a wide variety of plants (see list below) and can be an agricultural pest. ^ The flight season refers to the British Isles. This may vary in other parts of the range.

General Info About Common swift moth
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Attributes of Common swift moth
Colors
Brown
Black
Yellow
Gray
White
Habitat
Open grassland; garden; moorland; heathland
Larva Food Source
Roots of herbaceous plants, grasses
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
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Life Cycle of Common swift moth
Egg The embryonic stage of common swift moth begins with an egg, which is usually oviposited on plant material. The egg is small, spherical, and changes color as the embryo develops, signaling the nearing hatching time.
Larva After hatching, the larva of common swift moth emerges as a caterpillar, focusing on feeding and growth. It's elongated with a soft exoskeleton, varying in color and pattern, and molts several times as it grows.
Pupal The pupal stage features the transformation of common swift moth within a cocoon where metamorphosis occurs. The pupa is immobile and shows gradual differentiation as wings and adult body parts form internally.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult common swift 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 Common swift moth Larvae
Birds, rodents, insectivorous mammals, carnivorous insects, arachnids
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Predators of Adult Common swift moth
Bats, birds, rodents
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Interesting Facts About Common swift moth
The larvae of common swift moth engage in 'leaf mining,' creating intricate patterns as they feed within the layers of their host plant leaves.
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Scientific Classification of Common swift moth
Tips for Finding Common swift moth
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Youth Habitat of Common swift moth
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies
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Adult Habitat of Common swift moth
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies
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How Can You Attract Common swift moth
Common swift moth can be drawn to traps designed to mimic the scent of their preferred host plants or pheromone traps that replicate the chemical signals used by females to attract males.
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Habitat Preferences of Common swift moth Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of common swift moth are often deposited on the host plant or in soil nearby, where larvae emerge and feed on roots or organic matter underground. To observe the larval stage, one would search in rich, fertile soils near host plants. The mature larvae form cocoons in the soil to pupate, typically just below the surface. Seeking them would involve careful excavation around the host plants. Adults, being nocturnal and attracted to light, are commonly found near their emergent sites or on vegetation, and to spot them, one may visit these areas with a light source after dusk.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Common swift moth
The best time to find common swift moth is during their active periods at night, although observing the early stages will require searching during daylight hours.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Common swift moth
Mild, humid conditions are suitable for finding common swift moth, as extreme temperatures can be detrimental to their activity and survival.
Are Common swift moth harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Common swift moth
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Agricultural Pests

Larvae of common swift moth can cause mild to severe damage by boring through plant tissues like roots and stems, undermining plant stability. A small number can lead to weakened plants, while a large infestation can cause significant crop loss, impacting human food resources.

More Effects of Common swift moth

Common Questions People Also Ask
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