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Green Cloverworm

Hypena scabra

The Green Cloverworm Moth (Plathypena scabra) is a small, but fascinating, insect belonging to the Erebidae family. Found primarily in North and South America, these moths exhibit a distinct, dark patterns on their wings. They either have a light or dark gray form.

The larvae of the Green Cloverworm Moth are equally intriguing, as they are known for their voracious appetite for legumes, particularly clover plants, hence the name. While they may pose a threat to crops in large numbers, they also play an essential role in the ecosystem as a food source for various predators. Additionally, these moths are excellent fliers, making them adept at dispersing across different habitats.  

Habitat
agricultural areas, suburbs, forests, cities
Scientific Name
Hypena scabra
Status
Common
Wing Span
25mm to 35mm
General Size
Small
Wing Color
black
black
brown
brown
grey
grey
Marking's Color
black
black
yellow
yellow
Markings Pattern
Stripes / Straight Lines
Color Patches

Characteristics describe the physical and behavioral traits that distinguish a species from others. This section helps readers identify and differentiate between similar species, aiding in species identification and reducing the chance of misidentification.

Identifying Characteristics

  1. Paler triangular patch on tips of forewing

  2. Slightly wavy post median line

  3. Slight bulge near leading edge

The chart displays the months of the year on the x-axis and observations of a particular species on the y-axis, indicating the time of year when each species is most commonly observed. This chart can assist moth watchers and researchers in predicting the best times and locations to observe specific moth species.

A range map is a visual representation of a species' geographical distribution, and it helps naturalists and field researchers quickly determine if a species is likely to be found in a given area, aiding in identification, conservation, and habitat management efforts.