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The Noctuidae, or owlet moths, is a family of
robustly-built moths that includes more than 35,000 known species
4,200 genera. They constitute the largest family in the Lepidoptera.
Most have drab forewings, although some have brightly colored
hindwings. There are usually few differences between the sexes. The
overwhelming majority of noctuids fly at night and are almost
invariably strongly attracted to light. Many are also attracted to
sugar and nectar-rich flowers. Some of the family are preyed upon by
bats. However, these members have developed an evasive system
whereby upon hearing the high pitched note which is emitted by the
bat to locate its prey, a tiny organ in the ear sends muscles in the
wings into spasm - causing the moth to dart around erratically. This
random movement has the effect of evading the incoming bat.
Several species have larvae (caterpillars) that live in the soil and
are agricultural or horticultural pests. These are the "cutworms"
that eat the bases of young brassicas and lettuces. They form hard,
shiny pupae. Most noctuid larvae feed at night, resting in the soil
or in a crevice in its food plant during the day.
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