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Dotted clay

Dotted clay

Xestia baja

A species of Xestia

The wingspan is 35–40 mm. Forewing dull red brown, with slight lilac-grey tinge in places; a distinct black praeapical costal bar; upper stigmata large, with slight pale rings; lower lobe of reniform dark; median shade forming a brown space between the stigmata; a black dot near base of cell; hindwing ochreous or yellowish grey. ab. bajula Stgr. is smaller than the type and suffused with grey, without any red tinge; in the northern form punctata Auriv, the lines are prominently marked by dots on the veins; purpurea Tutt, grisea Tutt and coerulescens Tutt are merely colour variations.

General Info About Dotted clay
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Attributes of Dotted clay
Colors
Brown
Black
Gray
Habitat
Woodland; heathland; hygrophilous bushy area; forests; forests edges along paths; clearings; forb-rich community
Adult Food Sources
Flower nectar, sap, overripe fruit, honeydew, bird droppings
Larva Food Source
Leaves of dock, dandelion, plantain, bramble, and heather
Non-poisonous
The Dotted clay is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Dotted clay 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
The Dotted clay feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Dotted clay
Widespread
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Distribution Area of Dotted clay
Europe, Turkey, Iran, Transcaucasia, Caucasus, Asia, Siberia, Mongolia, Tibet, China, Korea, Japan
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Predators of Adult Dotted clay
Bats, birds, rodents, spiders
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Interesting Facts About Dotted clay
Dotted clay can adjust its internal chemistry to produce antifreeze compounds, allowing it to survive extreme cold.
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Scientific Classification of Dotted clay
Tips for Finding Dotted clay
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Youth Habitat of Dotted clay
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Alpine Regions
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Habitat Preferences of Dotted clay Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of dotted clay are typically laid on the host plant leaves. Larvae can be found munching on the leaves or hidden close to the ground during the day, often in grassy or herbaceous areas. When searching for these caterpillars, focus on the plant bases and lower foliage. Pupae usually reside underground or in leaf litter, making soft soil or accumulated organic matter good places to look. Adult dotted clay rest on tree trunks or wooden structures, camouflaged by their wing patterns during the day. For observing adults, check the bark of trees, wooden fences, or near light sources at night.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Dotted clay
The best time to find adult dotted clay is during the night since most moths are nocturnal. Early stages like caterpillars can often be found during daylight hours on their host plants.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Dotted clay
Calm, mild, and warm nights are more suitable for finding adult dotted clay as moths tend to be more active under such conditions. Wet or windy weather conditions can reduce activity.
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How and Where Can You Find Dotted clay at Different Life Stages
Egg Eggs of dotted clay are typically laid on the host plant and can be found by inspecting the leaves and stems for small clusters or rows of eggs.
Larva Caterpillars of dotted clay can be located by searching on or near their host plants, looking on the undersides of leaves, and along stems where they feed.
Pupal Dotted clay pupae may be buried in the soil or found in crevices near the host plant. Look for them in loose soil or leaf litter at the base of plants.
Adult Adult dotted clay can be attracted at night using light traps or by applying sugary bait on trees or poles that act as feeding stations.
Are Dotted clay harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Dotted clay
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Hurt Plant

Dotted clay causes harm primarily through feeding on plant tissues. It targets diverse plant organs like leaves and fruits, resulting in chewed and damaged foliage which can hinder photosynthesis and overall plant vigor. Infested plants, including Heather, Bramble, Willow, and Birch, exhibit visible feeding scars, affecting both their aesthetic and physiological health.

More Effects of Dotted clay

Beneficial Effects of Dotted clay
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Dotted clay is known to visit various flowers during the night, attracted by their color and scent. This nocturnal activity facilitates the pollination of many plant species as dotted clay feeds on pollen, inadvertently transferring it from bloom to bloom. An interesting fact is that due to their nocturnal nature, dotted clay often pollinates flowers that are specifically adapted to night-time pollinators.
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