About Black Cutworm
A dull brown moth whose soil-dwelling caterpillars sever young seedlings at ground level during the night. It is a cosmopolitan pest that migrates long distances.
Did You Know?
Cutworm caterpillars curl into a C-shape when disturbed, a diagnostic behavior for identifying them in soil.
How to Identify Black Cutworm
Black Cutworm (Agrotis ipsilon) belongs to the order Lepidoptera, family Noctuidae. Adults typically measure 40-55 mm wingspan.
Black Cutworm Habitat
Black Cutworm is found in indoors habitats, particularly across Worldwide. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Black Cutworm Diet and Feeding
Black Cutworm feeds on seeds and grains. Seed-feeding insects can influence plant populations by consuming seeds, and some play a role in seed dispersal.
Where Is Black Cutworm Found?
Black Cutworm can be found in Worldwide, where it inhabits indoors environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Black Cutworm can be found
Is Black Cutworm Dangerous?
Black Cutworm is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.
Black Cutworm Role in Nature
Black Cutworm is part of the food web as a primary consumer, feeding on plant material. It serves as an important food source for birds, bats, amphibians, and other insectivores, connecting plant energy to higher trophic levels.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Black Cutworm
What does Black Cutworm look like?
The Black Cutworm typically measures 40-55 mm wingspan.
Where is Black Cutworm found?
The Black Cutworm is found in Worldwide and typically inhabits indoors environments.
What does Black Cutworm eat?
The Black Cutworm feeds on seeds and grains.
Is Black Cutworm dangerous to humans?
The Black Cutworm is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
Is Black Cutworm endangered?
The Black Cutworm is currently classified as Not Evaluated by conservation assessments. Habitat loss and environmental changes are among the primary threats to its population.
What is an interesting fact about Black Cutworm?
Cutworm caterpillars curl into a C-shape when disturbed, a diagnostic behavior for identifying them in soil.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Black Cutworm (Agrotis ipsilon). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/black-cutworm
MLA:
"Black Cutworm." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/black-cutworm.