Nutmeg (moth)

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The Nutmeg
larva of the Discestra trifolii
larva of the Discestra trifolii
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Lepidoptera
Family: Noctuidae
Genus: Discestra
Species: D. trifolii
Binomial name
Discestra trifolii
Hufnagel, 1758

The Nutmeg (Discestra trifolii), also known as the Clover Cutworm, is a moth of the family Noctuidae. It is found throughout Europe although in the north of its range it is a summer migrant, not being able to survive the cold winters.

This is a small to medium (wingspan 33-39 mm) species with cryptically coloured forewings, varying from light to dark brown, sometimes with a reddish tinge. The most characteristic feature is a distinctively "W"-shaped white subterminal line. This feature is seen on some other noctuids but usually much larger species. The hindwings are grey or buff, darker towards the termen, marked with dark veins. One or two broods are produced each year and adults can be seen at any time from May to September. This species flies at night and is attracted to light as well as to sugar and nectar-rich flowers.

Flight from June to first half of July. Second generation from latter half of July to September.[1]

The larva feeds on a wide range of plants (see list below). The species overwinters as a pupa.

[edit] Recorded food plants

[edit] References

  1. ^ Information on Discestra trifolii

[edit] Reading

  • Chinery, Michael Collins Guide to the Insects of Britain and Western Europe 1986 (Reprinted 1991)
  • Skinner, Bernard Colour Identification Guide to Moths of the British Isles 1984