Chilo

Definition

A genus of crambid moths (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) established by Zincken in 1817. Species in this genus are typically small to medium-sized pyraloid moths with larvae that often develop in stems, roots, or other plant tissues; several species are significant agricultural pests of cereal crops and pasture grasses. The genus is distinguished by genital morphology and larval feeding habits among Crambidae.

Etymology

From Latin Chīlō, a cognomen related to Ancient Greek χεῖλος (kheîlos, 'lip'), possibly alluding to labial or head morphology in the type species.

Example

Chilo suppressalis, the striped rice stem borer, is a major pest of rice throughout Asia; its larvae tunnel in rice stems, causing 'dead heart' in young plants and 'white head' in older tillers.

Related Terms

• Crambidae
• Lepidoptera
• stem borer
• rice pest
• Scirpophaga
• Sesamia
• pyraloid moth

Usage Notes

Not to be confused with the unrelated similar names in other taxa (e.g., Chiloneonasus in weevils, Chilobunus in harvestmen). In agricultural entomology, 'Chilo' often appears in common names of pest species (e.g., 'Chilo borer') even when the species has been moved to other genera; current taxonomy should be verified. The genus has undergone significant revision, and some former Chilo species are now placed in related genera such as Chilo partellus group species reassigned to Busseola or Scirpophaga in some treatments.