Setaceous Hebrew Character vs Cactoblastis Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Setaceous Hebrew Character Cactoblastis Moth
Scientific Name Xestia c-nigrum Cactoblastis cactorum
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Noctuidae Pyralidae
Size 38-45 mm wingspan 27-35 mm wingspan
Habitat Farmland Deserts & Drylands
Diet Herbivores Omnivores
Regions Europe, Asia, North America Australia, Oceania
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Setaceous Hebrew Character

A grey-brown moth with a dark mark on the forewing resembling a Hebrew letter. It is a migratory species that regularly reinforces its northern populations.

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Did You Know?

The 'c-nigrum' in its scientific name describes the black C-shaped mark on the forewing.

Cactoblastis Moth

Originally from South America, this moth was introduced to Australia in 1926 as a biological control agent against invasive prickly pear cactus. It is celebrated as one of the most successful biocontrol programmes in history.

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Did You Know?

A memorial hall was built in Boonarga, Queensland, in honour of this moth for saving millions of hectares of farmland.