Dioszeghyana schmidtii (Diószeghy 1935), and survey its presence and abundance (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae; Hadeninae)

Abstract

<I>Dioszeghyana schmidtii</I> (Di󳺥ghy 1935),<I> </I>is forest species protected by European Union. Its distribution has been studied essentially by the use of light traps. However, its biology and habitat preferences are not sufficiently known and thus its habitats may be damaged by forest management. We suggest the beating method in order to collect larvae as an useful way to record and to survey <I>D. schmidtii</I>. Larvae of the species can be collected by beating branches of its host plants (<I>Quercus</I> and <I>Acer </I>species) in the lower canopy (below 3 m). Optimal survey time would be the second half of May and the first half of June. Differences between the larvae of <I>D. schmidtii</I> and 16 similar moth larvae, as well as, Tenthredinidae (Hymenoptera) species living at the same time on the same trees are described and figured in a key to identification. The method described in the paper allows one to identify larvae in the field. Results are discussed.