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Four-spotted ghost moth

Four-spotted ghost moth

Sthenopis purpurascens

A species of Sthenopis

Sthenopis purpurascens, the four-spotted ghost moth, is a species of moth of the family Hepialidae. It was described by Packard in 1863. It is found in Canada and the United States, from Labrador and New York north and west to British Columbia and the Northwest Territories, south in the mountains to Arizona. The wingspan is 66–100 mm. There are two color forms, a purple-grey and a yellow-brown form. The latter was previously thought to be a separate species, Sthenopis quadriguttatus. The forewings have a darker oblique median band, a darker terminal area and darker spots along the costa. There are two small, silver spots near the wing base. The hindwings are purple brown or salmon pink and generally unmarked. The larvae feed on Populus, Salix and Alnus species. They bore into the roots of their host plant. The larvae have a cream-white body and brown head and reach a length of 50–60 cm. They need two years to complete their lifecycle

General Info About Four-spotted ghost moth
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Attributes of Four-spotted ghost moth
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
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Vestigial
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Life Cycle of Four-spotted ghost moth
Egg The egg stage sees the four-spotted ghost moth in a small, often spherical form. They are typically laid in clusters and embody the latent potential of the species, often camouflaged or attached to leaves.
Larva Emerging from the egg, the larvae of four-spotted ghost moth are primarily focused on feeding and growth. They exhibit successive molts, gaining size and occasionally changing color or pattern.
Pupal During the pupal stage, four-spotted ghost moth undergoes transformation within a cocoon. It is a period of reorganization, where tissue breakdown and adult structures form. The pupae remain stationary and vulnerable.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult four-spotted 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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Predators of Four-spotted ghost moth Larvae
Passerine birds, woodpeckers, rodents, arthropods
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Predators of Adult Four-spotted ghost moth
Bats, birds, rodents
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Interesting Facts About Four-spotted ghost moth
Four-spotted ghost moth larvae communicate through substrate-borne vibrations, coordinating socially to deter predators with synchronized movements.
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Scientific Classification of Four-spotted ghost moth
Tips for Finding Four-spotted ghost moth
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How Can You Attract Four-spotted ghost moth
Light traps could be effective for attracting adult four-spotted ghost moth, as adults may be drawn to light sources during mating periods.
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Habitat Preferences of Four-spotted ghost moth Through Different Life Stages
The larvae of four-spotted ghost moth typically reside underground where they feed on the roots of their host plants. In search of these immature stages, one should investigate soil around plants, especially those showing signs of root damage. The adult four-spotted ghost moth are frequently found in wooded areas or meadows where they engage in nocturnal flying activities close to trees or shrubs indigenous to their habitat. To observe the adult moths, one might explore these areas at dusk when they are most active, possibly using light traps or sugar baits to attract them.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Four-spotted ghost moth
The suitable time to find adult four-spotted ghost moth would likely be at dusk or night when they are most active and visible, while larvae or caterpillars could be sought during daylight hours when they are feeding.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Four-spotted ghost moth
For adults, calm and warm evenings are favorable conditions for flight and thus observation or capture. For larval or caterpillar stages, mild and humid weather may be best for finding them on host plants.
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How and Where Can You Find Four-spotted ghost moth at Different Life Stages
Egg Four-spotted ghost moth eggs are often laid on or near the host plants. To find the eggs, inspect the underside of the leaves or near the base of the plant. Use a magnifying glass if necessary to spot the small eggs.
Larva Four-spotted ghost moth caterpillars can be located by checking their host plants. Look for signs of feeding, such as chewed leaves or frass (caterpillar droppings), and gently search around the plant to locate them.
Pupal To discover four-spotted ghost moth pupae, examine the surrounding soil at the base of host plants or look for them among leaf litter, as they could be camouflaged or partially buried. They might also be attached to the plant itself.
Adult Adult four-spotted ghost moth can be found by setting up light traps or using floral lures at night. They can also be observed flying near their host plants or resting with wings outstretched on tree trunks or other surfaces.
Are Four-spotted ghost moth harmful?
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