Turnip Moth vs Differential Grasshopper

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Turnip Moth Differential Grasshopper
Scientific Name Agrotis segetum Melanoplus differentialis
Order Lepidoptera Orthoptera
Family Noctuidae Acrididae
Size 35-45 mm wingspan 28-50 mm
Habitat Farmland Farmland
Diet Root Feeders Herbivores
Regions Europe, Africa, Asia North America
Conservation Not Evaluated Least Concern

Turnip Moth

A drab brown moth whose fat cutworm larvae sever the stems and roots of root vegetables and seedlings. It is one of the most widespread cutworm pests in the Old World.

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Did You Know?

Larvae can survive extended periods of drought by burrowing deep into the soil and entering a dormant state.

Differential Grasshopper

A large spur-throated grasshopper recognized by the herringbone pattern on its hind femora. It is a significant agricultural pest in North America.

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Did You Know?

Differential grasshoppers can eat about half their body weight in vegetation each day, causing millions of dollars in crop damage during outbreaks.