Cadra

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Lepidoptera
Superfamily: Pyraloidea
Family: Pyralidae
Subfamily: Phycitinae
Tribe: Phycitini
Genus: Cadra

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Cadra: //ˈka.dra//

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

Images

Cadra cautella male LCR by Birgit E. Rhode, Landcare Research New Zealand Ltd.. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Buckler W The larvæ of the British butterflies and moths Plate CLVI by William Buckler. Used under a Public domain license.

CSIRO ScienceImage 2600 Tropical warehouse moth or almond moth Cadra cautella syn Ephestia cautella by division, CSIRO. Used under a CC BY 3.0 license.

Almond moth by Clemson University - USDA Cooperative Extension Slide Series. Used under a CC BY 3.0 us license.

CSIRO ScienceImage 2667 Caterpillar of the tropical warehouse moth or almond moth Cadra cautella syn Ephestia cautella by division, CSIRO. Used under a CC BY 3.0 license.

CSIRO ScienceImage 11061 Tropical warehouse moth or almond moth Cadra cautella syn Ephestia cautella by division, CSIRO. Used under a CC BY 3.0 license.

Summary

Cadra is a genus of small moths within the family Pyralidae, notable for some species that are pests of dry plant produce; they can be identified by their unique forewing venation.

Physical Characteristics

Cadra species are characterized by their small size and reduced forewing venation, missing veins 4, 7, and 9, resulting in a total of nine veins in the forewing.

Identification Tips

To identify Cadra species, look for the morphology of the forewings, specifically the reduced venation.

Habitat

Cadra species are commonly found in environments where dry plant materials, such as seeds and nuts, are present.

Distribution

The genus Cadra includes species that occur in America north of Mexico.

Diet

Several species of Cadra are known to be pests of dry plant produce, consuming seeds and nuts.

Life Cycle

The life cycle specifics may vary by species but generally include egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages.

Reproduction

Reproductive habits are not detailed, but typically involve egg-laying in suitable environments for larvae to feed.

Ecosystem Role

Cadra species play a role in ecosystems primarily as consumers of dry plant materials, but they can also impact agricultural practices due to their pest status.

Economic Impact

Some species, like the almond moth (C. cautella), are significant pests of agricultural products, impacting food industries.

Evolution

Cadra is closely related to the genus Ephestia, with some sources suggesting Ephestia may be a senior synonym of Cadra.

Similar Taxa

Ephestia

Misconceptions

Cadra and Ephestia are often confused in non-entomological sources due to overlapping characteristics and nomenclature.