Pyralini

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Lepidoptera
Superfamily: Pyraloidea
Family: Pyralidae
Subfamily: Pyralinae
Tribe: Pyralini

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Pyralini: //ˌpaɪ.rəˈlaɪ.naɪ//

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

Images

Aglossa cuprina P1410368a by
xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Aglossa disciferalis SERC 07-01-16 (27950382581) by Smithsonian Environmental Research Center. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Aglossa caprealis - Stored Grain Moth (14198902860) by Andy Reago & Chrissy McClarren. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Aglossa cuprina - Grease Moth (14836194860) by Andy Reago & Chrissy McClarren. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

- 5512 – Aglossa disciferalis (Dyar, 1908) – Pink-masked Pyralid Moth by Wildreturn. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Aglossa caprealis (35780277946) by Ben Sale from UK. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Summary

The Pyralini are a tribe of snout moths described by Pierre André Latreille in 1809, predominantly characterized by their size and coloration, and include some known pests of stored cereals. Their classification may change as new genera are identified and the taxonomy is revised.

Physical Characteristics

Usually largish snout moths; some are boldly colored (often in bright brown to yellow hues).

Identification Tips

Identification of Pyralini can include examination of snout length and wing patterns, especially for the meal moth (Pyralis farinalis) which is a common and notorious pest.

Habitat

Typically found in areas where stored cereals and similar goods are present, as many species are associated with such habitats.

Distribution

Primarily distributed in the Old World with some occurrences in other regions.

Diet

Many Pyralini species are known to feed on stored grains, cereals, and other plant materials; specific diet may vary by species.

Life Cycle

Specific details on life cycle are not included, but like other moths, they likely have distinct life stages including egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa, and adult.

Reproduction

Details on reproductive habits are not provided, but typical Lepidopteran reproduction includes laying eggs on host plants.

Predators

Predation likely includes various birds, insects, and other natural predators common in the respective habitats.

Ecosystem Role

As pests, they can impact the storage of agricultural products, while also serving as prey for natural predators.

Economic Impact

Several Pyralini species, particularly the meal moth, are notorious pests of stored food products, representing an important concern for agriculture and food security.

Evolution

The Pyralini represent a successful radiation with ongoing discoveries of new genera; phylogenetic analysis is still required for definitive classification.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Formerly believed to belong to multiple distinct subfamilies or tribes due to misidentifications by early entomologists.