Imago activity rhythms of some pest species of Noctuidae in Ethiopia (Insecta: Lepidoptera)

Abstract

Daily rhythms of feeding, attraction to light and female calling of Agrotis segetum, Mentaxia ignicollis, Heliothis armigera, Mythimna loreyi and Plusua orichalcea are described. The periods of feeding activity and female calling are typical for all the species. The male/female ratio during the copulation period is shifted in favour of males, and the biological significance of this is discussed.

Keywords:

• Noctuidae
• rhythms of activity
• Ethiopia