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Poplar grey

Poplar grey

Subacronicta megacephala

A species of Subacronicta

During the larval stage, poplar grey features conspicuous striping along its body, showcasing an innate adaptation for blending with its foliar habitat. As an adult, it emerges with muted wing patterns, an evolutionary strategy to avoid predation. These nocturnal creatures play essential roles in their ecosystems, primarily by participating in the pollination of various plant species during their nightly forays.

General Info About Poplar grey
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Attributes of Poplar grey
Habitat
Populus; garden; park; woodland
Adult Food Sources
Nectar from flowers such as lonicera (honeysuckle), syringa (lilac), phlox, buddleia (butterfly bush), and asclepias (milkweed)
Larva Food Source
Leaves from broadleaf deciduous trees such as quercus (oaks), corylus (hazels), salix (willows), betula (birches), and alnus (alders)
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Poplar grey 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
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Species Status of Poplar grey
Common
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Distribution Area of Poplar grey
Europe
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Life Cycle of Poplar grey
Egg The poplar grey starts as an egg, which is usually laid on plants. The eggs are tiny, round, and often exhibit a color that camouflages with the plant surface to protect them from predators.
Larva Upon hatching, the larva of poplar grey emerges. This stage is defined by a voracious appetite as the creature is worm-like with a soft body. The larva frequently molts, increasing in size with each stage.
Pupal After several molts, the larva of poplar grey encases itself in a chrysalis or cocoon. During this pupa stage, it undergoes a dramatic transformation, reorganizing internally and preparing for adulthood.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult poplar grey’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 Poplar grey Larvae
Birds, rodents, small mammals, arthropods like other insects and spiders
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Scientific Classification of Poplar grey
Tips for Finding Poplar grey
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Youth Habitat of Poplar grey
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Adult Habitat of Poplar grey
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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How Can You Attract Poplar grey
Sweet baits or artificial lights may attract the adult poplar grey, as this is effective for many nocturnal Lepidoptera.
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Habitat Preferences of Poplar grey Through Different Life Stages
Eggs of poplar grey are usually laid on the underside of host plant leaves, favoring those in woodland edges or gardens. Caterpillars can be found within curled leaves or among leaf litter where they feed and develop, often located in moist, shaded areas. Pupae typically reside in loose soil or foliage debris, while adults, being nocturnal, are commonly spotted around light sources and nectar-rich flowers during nights in similar habitats as their larvae.
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How and Where Can You Find Poplar grey at Different Life Stages
Egg Eggs of poplar grey are typically laid on host plants. To find them, inspect the leaves of potential host plants for tiny, discreetly laid eggs or clusters.
Larva Larvae of poplar grey can be found on or near host plants. Look for signs of feeding, like chewed leaves, and carefully examine both sides of leaves and stems.
Pupal Pupae of poplar grey may be attached to structures near the ground, buried in soil, or hidden in leaf litter. Search gently through these areas without causing harm to the environment.
Adult To find adult poplar grey, set up light traps or use sweet baits at night. Attracted by the light or bait, poplar grey will often come into the vicinity, making observation and collection possible.
Are Poplar grey harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Poplar grey
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Hurt Plant

Poplar grey damages poplars and willows by its larval feeding habits. The larvae infest and chew through the plant tissues of leaves, resulting in irregular holes and compromised leaf structure. This can lead to reduced photosynthesis, stunted growth, and even the eventual death of the host plant if the infestation is severe.

More Effects of Poplar grey

Beneficial Effects of Poplar grey
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Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar, Accidental Contamination While Feeding On Nectar
Poplar grey is attracted to the colors and scents of flowers, inadvertently carrying pollen from one bloom to another. While primarily seeking nourishment from the flowers, they also play a significant role in the pollination process, assisting plants in reproduction.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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