Epipaschiinae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Epipaschiinae: /ˌɛpɪˈpæski.aɪˌni/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Summary

Epipaschiinae is a diverse subfamily of snout moths comprised of over 720 species, primarily found in warm climates, with specific genera known for their economic impact as agricultural pests. Adult males exhibit distinct features aiding in identification, while the larvae have adaptive feeding strategies that can lead to crop infestations.

Physical Characteristics

Adult females are often hard to distinguish from related lineages; adult males have an upturned and pointed third segment of the labial palpi, a ventrally curved phallobase, and a weakly sclerotized tegumen. Adult males typically display a conspicuous scaled projection from the antennae.

Identification Tips

Males are easier to recognize due to distinct physical traits associated with the male reproductive system and antennae features. Adult females can be confused with related lineages due to morphological similarities.

Habitat

Found mainly in tropical and subtropical regions; some species inhabit temperate regions, absent in Europe as native species.

Distribution

Globally distributed with an abundance in tropical and subtropical areas; absent in Europe.

Diet

Caterpillar larvae are leaf rollers, leaf tiers, and leaf miners. Known to infest plants such as avocado (Persea americana), mahogany (Swietenia), and corn (Zea mays).

Life Cycle

Life cycle details are specific to species; generally undergo metamorphosis through the larval stage after hatching from eggs.

Reproduction

Reproduction details may vary; generally involves the pairing of males and females, leading to egg-laying which produces larvae.

Ecosystem Role

Some species serve as pests in agricultural ecosystems, potentially affecting crop yield but often considered a minor nuisance.

Economic Impact

A few species are crop pests, notably infesting avocados, mahogany, and corn, which can lead to localized economic significance.

Collecting Methods

• Light trapping
• Net collection
• Hand picking

Preservation Methods

• Pinning
• Drying
• Alcohol preservation

Evolution

Epipaschiinae is part of the family Pyralidae, with phylogenetic traits suggesting a monophyletic group classified by specific male characteristics.

Similar Taxa

• Other subfamilies of Pyralidae

Misconceptions

Some species are often mistaken for non-pestiferous moths due to their similarities in appearance and behavior.

Tags

• Epipaschiinae
• Pyralidae
• moths
• snout moths
• agricultural pests