The hemlock moth (Agonopterix alstroemeriana), also known as the defoliating hemlock moth or poison hemlock moth, is a nocturnal moth species of the family Depressariidae. Of Palaearctic origin, it was first found in North America in 1973 when it was accidentally introduced.[1] The moth is now widespread throughout the northern half of the United States, southern Canada, northern Europe, and, more recently, New Zealand and Australia. The larval form grows to around 10 mm, while the adults wingspan is between 17 mm and 19 mm.[2][3]
It is best known for its use in biological control of the lethally toxic poison hemlock (Conium maculatum), which is eaten by its caterpillars (larvae). The toxicity of its host plant may actually benefit the caterpillar because it helps females recognize locations for oviposition.[4] This species also uses the leaves of its host plant (C. maculatum) to form protective tubes around the caterpillar.[2]
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and 13 Related for: Agonopterix alstroemeriana information
The hemlock moth (Agonopterixalstroemeriana), also known as the defoliating hemlock moth or poison hemlock moth, is a nocturnal moth species of the family...
silver-ground carpet moths and particularly the poison hemlock moth (Agonopterixalstroemeriana). The latter has been widely used as a biological control agent...
of alkaloids being utilized occurs in the poison hemlock moth (Agonopterixalstroemeriana). This moth feeds on its highly toxic and alkaloid-rich host plant...
; Berenbaum, M.R. (2001). "A native Hymenopteran predator of Agonopterixalstroemeriana (Lepidoptera: Oecophoridae) in east-central Illinois". Great Lakes...
invasive plant species. As another example, the poison hemlock moth (Agonopterixalstroemeriana) can be used to control poison hemlock (Conium maculatum). During...
of chemicals when feeding on the plants. One species of moth, Agonopterixalstroemeriana, infests C. maculatum. The plants serve as a host for several...
alkaloids toxic to all classes of domesticated grazing animals. Agonopterixalstroemeriana is used as a biological control method for the plant, which in...
European gorse (Ulex europaeus), and the defoliating hemlock moth (Agonopterixalstroemeriana) has been used against Conium maculatum poison hemlock in the...
termen. The hindwings are light fuscous. It can be confused with Agonopterixalstroemeriana. The larvae feed on Antennaria luzuloides and Gnaphalium species...