Pyrausta nigrata
Pyrausta nigrata
Pyrausta nigrata is a butterfly (moth ) of the family Crambidae.
- 5.1 Notes and references
- 5.2 Literature
Features
The moths have a wingspan of 14-17 mm (or a forewing length 8-9 mm). The wings are black brown in color, each with a curved, white transverse fascia. On the forewing it corresponds approximately to the outer transverse line on the hindwing the median line. On the forewing is still a Diskalfleck and a dash or stain on the inner edge, approximately in the area of the inner transverse line. On the hind wings still is added a white spot in the root field (or Basalfeld ).
The caterpillar is colored green to light brown, often darker on the back. It has a weakly indicated topline. The Pinnacula on the segments I, II, III and VII are dark brown, the remaining Pinnacula brighter. The head is bright with a dark brown patterning. The neck shield is olive green. She's grown up to 19 mm long.
Similar Species
A certain similarity exists to Pyrausta cingulata and Pyrausta rectefascialis. These types are sure to distinguish the weak wavy or straight forewing transverse fascia and the absence of further small white drawing elements on the front wings of Pyrausta nigrata.
Geographical distribution and habitat
Pyrausta nigrata is widely used in Europe, from Portugal in the west to Russia. In the north, the range extends to Scandinavia in the south to Italy and the Balkan Peninsula, on the north-west Turkey ( Bursa province ).
The species prefers dry, but also a bit more humid, grassy habitats in the open landscape.
Way of life
Pyrausta nigrata probably forms two generations; diurnal moths fly from mid-April to August.
The caterpillars live oligophagen tight in a cocoon at the bottom of the food plants. Be eaten sand thyme (Thymus serpyllum ), oregano (Origanum vulgare), field mint (Mentha arvensis), Meadow Clary (Salvia pratensis), Meier ( Asperula ) and woodruff ( Galium odoratum ). The small caterpillars feed initially the top layer of leaves, later carried out hole and total corrosion. The caterpillar overwinters and pupates in the spring.
Systematics and Taxonomy
The taxon was described in 1763 by Giovanni Antonio Scopoli as Phalaena nigrata first time scientifically. The holotype was collected in " districtu Idriensi " ( = Idrija, Slovenia) and is now lost.