Agrotis evanescens
Overview
Agrotis evanescens is a moth of the family Noctuidae. It was first described by Walter Rothschild in 1894. It is endemic to the Hawaiian island of Laysan.
Agrotis evanescens faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat destruction from agricultural expansion and urban development across its limited range. The species' specialized habitat requirements make it particularly vulnerable to land-use changes, while its restricted distribution leaves little room for population recovery. Climate change may further stress remaining populations by altering the specific environmental conditions this moth requires for successful reproduction.
Habitat
This nocturnal moth inhabits specialized grassland and scrubland environments with specific host plant associations. The species requires undisturbed native vegetation communities that provide both larval food sources and suitable microclimate conditions for adult emergence and mating.
Conservation measures underway
Other threatened species in NOCTUIDAE
Threatened in United States
Frequently asked questions
Why is Agrotis evanescens classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Agrotis evanescens live?
What are the main threats to Agrotis evanescens?
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