Dagger Moths, Noctuid Moths

Classification

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Arthropoda

Subphylum: Hexapoda

Class: Insecta

Order: Lepidoptera

Family: Noctuidae

There are around 25,000 identified species of small to large moths in this family. Most of the moths in this family are dull in color, but some species have brightly colored hindwings.

They have threadlike antennae and are found in all parts of the world. Most species pupate in the soil. Most of the moths in this family are nocturnal and are attracted to light. Adults feed on the nectar of flowers. Most of the caterpillars in this family have very little hair or are smooth.

Cutworms are in this family. The caterpillars of cutworms live in the soil and can damage plants. They pull plants from the surface down into their burrows!

Armyworms and cabbage loopers are also in this family and can cause damage to crops. Cabbage loopers are also known as cabbage worms. They are called loopers because they hunch their bodies and move like inch worms. They are pale green with white stripes and feed on crops like cabbage, kale, turnips, broccoli, and cauliflower.

Armyworms are also a threat to crops. They get their name because the attack crops like an invading army! They feed on grass and grain crops and will eat everything in their path and then move on to the next food source.