Antler Moth
Trident Graseule ( Cerapteryx graminis )
The trident - Graseule ( Cerapteryx graminis ) is a butterfly (moth ) from the family of cutworms ( Noctuidae ).
- 5.1 Notes and references
- 5.2 Literature
Features
Butterfly
The wingspan of the butterfly has a very wide range and is 24 to 38 millimeters. The females are much larger than the males. In the Alps, very small specimens, with a wingspan of only 16 to 18 millimeters appear. The front wing of a yellow gray to gray-brown and red-brown to dark brown varying color. Characteristic features are converted to a trident mostly yellowish kidney blemish. In this color shimmer and the oval ring stain and the elongated Zapf blemish. The midvein is whitish. Near the hem are sometimes wedge black spots. Below the PTO stigma, a dark line is visible. The hind wings are gray-brown and darkens toward the edge. Head and thorax are densely hairy.
Caterpillar
Young caterpillars are greenish and change color with age in gray-brown to brown. They then act clumsy and have a rolled shape. They also show bright back - and side- back lines and black spiracles. The underside and legs are light brown. The head is shiny brownish.
Similar Species
The beheimate kind in Asia Cerapteryx megala is slightly bigger on average and shows a less pronounced whitish midvein.
Geographical distribution and habitat
The trident - Graseule occurs in almost all of Europe. However, it is absent in the very dry southern regions. The northernmost occurrence extends to Iceland and the Arctic Circle. There are also deposits in Siberia and northern Mongolia. After North America, the species has been introduced. In the Alps, they can still be found at altitudes of 2100 meters. It inhabits areas with predominantly humid climate and is often found on wet meadows.
Way of life
The moths fly univoltine July to September. They are diurnal and nocturnal. Occasionally they suck at flowers, for example, to those from thistles ( Cirsium ) or sage (Salvia ). You will also visit artificial light sources and rare bait. The caterpillars live on or in the ground. They feed preferentially from the roots of various freshwater ( Poaceae ) or sour grass species ( Cyperaceae ). In rainy years can cause outbreaks.
Endangering
The trident - Graseule occurs in Germany in all provinces and is classified on the Red List of Threatened Species as not at risk.