Acronicta laetifica
(Smith, 1897)
Pleasant Dagger
Sort #: 2508 | P #: 931444 | MPG #: 9227 | PFG Page #: 398
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Larval substrate: Ostrya virginiana (Hop Hornbeam), Carpinus (Hornbeam), Corylus (Hazel)
Phenology: Adult: 5/21 to 8/16 (27 records)
Comment: Similar to A. hasta, A. lobeliae and A. interrupta. A. lobeliae is a larger species while A. interrupta is smaller. Compared to the similarly sized A. hasta, A. laetifica is paler gray and the subterminal line and orbicular stigma are filled with white/pale-gray scales, compared with mouse gray in A. hasta. Spread male A. laetifica can easily by distinguished from the other species by exposing the valve by brushing. The ventral flange of the valve forms an obtuse angle in laetifica, but a right angle in interrupta and hasta. Average FWL in males 19.2mm and in females 20.2mm.
Status in MA (automated assessment): Fairly widespread, rare
Status in N. America: Native
MA Endangered Species Act status: None
First Year Reported: 1911
Last Year Reported: 2022
Distribution by County: Berkshire, Hampden, Hampshire, Franklin, Worcester, Middlesex, Essex, Bristol, Plymouth, Dukes
Number of Records: 33
