Noctuidae

73.313 White-line Dart Euxoa tritici (Linnaeus, 1761)

Common

Similar species: Coast Dart Euxoa cursoria is also as variable, but is on average larger (14 to 18mm), and lacks the darts between the veins inside the outer cross-line. If unsure check the genitalia. Square-spot Dart Euxoa obelisca grisea lacks the darts between the veins inside the outer cross-line (although the veins may themselves be black) and the outer central cross-line runs along the edge of the kidney mark rather than looping around well clear of it. If unsure check the genitalia. Heath Rustic Xestia agathina has a generally more reddish forewing with a smaller flattened oval that contrasts strongly with the black wedge surrounding it. It also has an even more wavy inner central cross-line.

Forewing: 13 to 17mm

Habitats: Coastal sand-dunes, downland, heathland, sparsely wooded heathland and moorland.

Habits: The moth feeds after dark and occasionally during the day, at the flowers of Marram, ragworts, Heather and other grasses and herbs. It is attracted to sugar and light.

Foodplant: The nocturnal larva feeds on Hedge Bedstraw, Lady's-bedstraw, Corn Spurrey, mouse-ears, Dandelion, plantains, chickweeds and other herbaceous plants. It hides in the soil during the day.It pupates under the soil.

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