Noctuidae

73.168 Double Lobed Lateroligia ophiogramma (Esper, 1794)

Common

Similar species: This moth is superficially similar to a Common Rustic form Mesapamea secalis which has less smooth lobes. There is a melanic form of Double Lobed where the lobes are still visible.

Forewing: 13 to 16mm

Habitats: The margins of lakes and ponds, river-banks, watermeadows, marshes, fens, damp woodland and gardens.

Habits: The moth visits flowers and is attracted to sugar and light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds inside the stem, then burrows down to the roots of Reed Canary-grass or the cultivar known as Gardener's Garters. It also feeds on Reed Sweet-grass and the widely planted Pampas Grass. It pupates in a cocoon in the leaf litter.

On the European mainland it has also been recorded feeding on Common Reed.