Mythimna unipuncta

SPECIES: Mythimna unipuncta ( Ordine Lepidoptera )

COMMON NAME: Nottua Gramineae

SIZE: larva range from 0.5 cm to 3.5 - 4 cm

LIFECYCLE: The species is good flier, able to make long migrations. The female lays about 1500 eggs in groups of 100-150. Hatching takes place after 5-10 days, depending on the climatic conditions. The mature larva buryies itself a few inches deep, where it turns into a pupa. The pupal stage can last 7-14 days, or more. In Italy, the species is able to complete 3-4 generations per year. Overwintering occurs during the caterpillar stage, in the ground. The complete cycle from egg to adult takes 30-40 days.

FEATURES: adult moths are strictly nocturnal with terricolous habits.

HABITAT: ornamental lawns, etc.

DIET/DAMAGE: the larva often causes serious harm to ornamental lawns as it feeds on the underground roots of the grass stems. In 24/48 hours, affected areas of lawn turn completely yellow and can cover tens of square metres.

I want to sterminate it