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Guernsey underwing

Guernsey underwing

Polyphaenis sericata

A species of Polyphaenis

Polyphaenis sericata, the Guernsey underwing, is a moth of the family Noctuidae. The species was first described by Eugenius Johann Christoph Esper in 1787. It is found in Europe and Asia. The wingspan is 38–44 millimetres (1.5–1.7 in). The larvae feed on various herbaceous plants, including privet, honeysuckle and dogwood.

General Info About Guernsey underwing
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Attributes of Guernsey underwing
Colors
Brown
Black
Green
Gray
White
Habitat
Warm scrub; sunny forest edge; limestone grassland
Adult Food Sources
Flower nectar, honeydew, sap, ripe fruit juices, other sugary plant secretions
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Guernsey underwing 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
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Guernsey underwing
Widespread
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Distribution Area of Guernsey underwing
Southern Europe, Western Asia, Central France
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Life Cycle of Guernsey underwing
Egg The eggs of guernsey underwing are tiny and can vary in color. They are commonly laid on host plants. The eggs serve as the protection for the developing embryo and will hatch into larvae in response to environmental cues.
Larva Upon hatching, the larvae, commonly referred to as caterpillars, are primarily focused on eating and growing. They often have a different coloration from adults and will molt several times, increasing in size with each stage.
Pupal The caterpillar of guernsey underwing forms a pupa, during which it undergoes a transformation. The pupa may be attached to leaves or buried in the soil. Inside, the guernsey underwing reorganizes into an adult, unseen from the outside world.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult guernsey underwing’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 Guernsey underwing
Guernsey underwing can navigate using Earth's magnetic field and visual landmarks, allowing it to travel precise migratory routes.
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Scientific Classification of Guernsey underwing
Tips for Finding Guernsey underwing
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Youth Habitat of Guernsey underwing
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Adult Habitat of Guernsey underwing
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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When is the Best Time to Observe Guernsey underwing
The best time to find guernsey underwing is at night when they are more active. The adults are also more likely to be spotted during their flight season which typically peaks in late summer or early autumn.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Guernsey underwing
Guernsey underwing is likely to be most active on warm, humid nights. Extreme temperatures or heavy rain can reduce their activity, making them harder to spot.
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How and Where Can You Find Guernsey underwing at Different Life Stages
Egg Guernsey underwing eggs are often laid on host plants. Look for them on the underside of leaves or along stems, especially in protected areas that shelter the eggs from predators and harsh environmental conditions.
Larva Guernsey underwing larvae are caterpillars and can be found feeding on their host plants. Search for holes or chewed edges on leaves and inspect both sides of the leaves as well as the stems where the larvae might be feeding or resting.
Pupal Guernsey underwing pupate in the soil or in leaf litter. To locate them, carefully sift through the top layers of soil and leaf debris near host plants. Be gentle to avoid harming the pupae.
Adult Adult guernsey underwing can be found by setting up a light trap at night, as they are attracted to light. You can also try hanging white sheets with a light source behind them to observe and collect these nocturnal creatures as they land on the surface.
Are Guernsey underwing harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Guernsey underwing
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Hurt Plant

When guernsey underwing feeds on its host plants, such as Heather (Calluna vulgaris) and Gorse (Ulex europaeus), the insect chews on the tissues of leaves and fruits. This action can lead to defoliation and fruit damage, potentially reducing photosynthesis efficiency and impairing plant growth and reproductive capabilities. The observable consequences are the skeletonization or complete consumption of the affected plant parts.

More Effects of Guernsey underwing

Beneficial Effects of Guernsey underwing
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Smell
Guernsey underwing primarily engages in pollination while feasting on floral pollen for nourishment. Attracted by the bright colors and sweet scents of various blossoms, this insect inadvertently carries pollen from one flower to another, contributing to plant reproduction.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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