Ephestia
Ephestia
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Lepidoptera
- Superfamily: Pyraloidea
- Family: Pyralidae
- Subfamily: Phycitinae
- Tribe: Phycitini
- Genus: Ephestia
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Ephestia: /ɛˈfɛs.ti.a/
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Images
Summary
Ephestia is a genus of small moths within the Pyralidae family, notable for including harmful pests to dried agricultural products such as the cacao moth and the Mediterranean flour moth.
Diet
Some species are significant pests of dry plant produce, such as seeds and cereals.
Ecosystem Role
Ephestia species play a role in the ecosystems as decomposers of plant materials, though some are pests that can cause economic damage in agricultural contexts.
Economic Impact
Some species are pests of stored products, particularly grains and seeds, potentially leading to significant agricultural losses.
Evolution
Ephestia is closely related to the genus Cadra, which may be a junior synonym, illustrating ongoing taxonomic discussions among these related groups.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
The genus Ephestia may be confused with Cadra, as non-entomological sources might misassign species to either genus.
Tags
- Ephestia
- Pyralidae
- moths
- pests
- agriculture
- Lepidoptera