Striacosta albicosta (Smith, [1888])
93-3228
Western Bean Cutworm Moth
View Photographic Plate
ID : Twin Falls Co.
Buhl, 3770 ft
42.6, -114.8
July 25, 1957, R. E. Miller.
Specimen courtesy of LGCC
Photograph copyright: Merrill A. Peterson
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Similar Species
Feltia subgothica "species-data"
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Identification
Adults
Striacosta albicosta is a medium-sized (FW length 17 - 20 mm), dark gray moth found in the Snake River Plain in the Pacific Northwest. The forewing ground color is dark gray to dark brown-gray with a longitudinally streaked, light yellow costa, the reason for the generic and species epithets. Lighter brown is present between the veins in most individuals, the terminal area is darker gray, and the cell is filled with black. The antemedial and postmedial lines are dark, barely evident, except for the lighter brown filling. The orbicular and reniform spots are outlined in light yellow and are filled with brown. A black basal dash and black claviform spots are present on each side of the antemedial line. The hindwing is pale whitish, slightly darker gray near the margin. A thin gray terminal line is present at the base of the white fringe. The head and thorax are dark gray-brown, with a thin black line at the prothoracic collar. The abdomen is lighter gray-brown. The male antenna is bead-like with diamond-shaped individual segments.
This species is most similar to members of the genus Euxoa in general appearance. It can be recognized by the combination of streaked light costa, dark gray and brown forewing ground color, and nearly white hindwing.
Habitat
This species is mostly found in disturbed agricultural habitats of the Southwest and southern Great Plains at low elevations, and barely enters the Pacific Northwest in southern Idaho.
Distribution
Pacific Northwest
This species has only been found in southern Idaho in the Pacific Northwest.
Global
Striacosta albicosta reaches its northwestern limit in Idaho. It is found from Iowa, Nebraska, and Idaho to northern South America.
Life History
Larvae
This species is a generalist feeding on herbaceous vegetation in families such as the Fabaceae and Solanaceae. Larvae require loose soils for pupation.
Adults
Adults occur in summer. The records from our region are from late June to early July. Adults are nocturnal and come to light.
Economic Importance
This species may be a serious agricultural pest in herbaceous crops, particularly in crops of beans and other legumes.
Literature
Lafontaine (2004)
