Plusiine looper moths are a large, globally distributed subfamily (Plusiinae) of owlet moths (Noctuidae), named for the distinctive looping movement of their larvae. Many species are significant agricultural pests.
Key Facts
"Looping" Movement: The larvae (caterpillars) are called "loopers" because they lack two or three pairs of prolegs (fleshy abdominal stubs) found on most caterpillars. This forces them to arch their backs into a loop as they crawl, similar to inchworms.
Appearance:
Larvae are typically green with faint longitudinal white stripes and a few long hairs.
Adults generally have prominent tufts of hair-like scales on their thorax, upturned labial palps, and forewings that often feature metallic silver or brassy spots (e.g., a "Y" or question mark shape).
Diet: The caterpillars are largely polyphagous, meaning they feed on a wide variety of herbaceous plants, including many common garden vegetables and field crops like cabbage, broccoli, potatoes, and clover. Some boreal species also feed on conifers.
Pest Status: Several species are major agricultural pests due to their defoliation of crops. Notable examples include the cabbage looper (Trichoplusia ni) and the silver Y moth (Autographa gamma).
Habitat and Migration: They are found in open areas, gardens, and agricultural lands across tropical, temperate, and arctic regions worldwide. Many species, such as the common looper moth, are migratory, moving north in the spring and south in the fall.
Life Cycle: Like all moths, they undergo complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult moth). The eggs are laid on the undersides of leaves and hatch within a few days. The larval stage lasts several weeks before they pupate in a cocoon.
