Hieroxestinae
Genus Guides
3Hieroxestinae is a of within the Tineidae, comprising approximately 275 valid across six . The group shows notable biogeographic patterns, with significant radiations of Opogona and Amphixystis on Indian Ocean islands and a distinct radiation of Opogona on St Helena in the South Atlantic. The subfamily is predominantly tropical in distribution and depauperate in the Americas.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Hieroxestinae: //ˌhaɪ.əˌrɒkˈsɛtɪniː//
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Distribution
Predominantly tropical; distributed throughout the world but depauperate in the Americas. Significant radiations occur on Indian Ocean islands within the Malagasy Subregion (Seychelles, Mauritius, Réunion) and on St Helena Island in the South Atlantic.
Diet
Larvae are predominantly detritophagous. Several feed facultatively on green plant material.
Human Relevance
Opogona sacchari is a pest of seedlings and nursery stock in the U.S.A. and Mediterranean region.
More Details
Generic composition
The contains six constituent : Amphixystis, Archemitra, Asymplecta, Crobylophanes, Kermania, Mitrogona, Oinophila, Opogona, Phaeoses, Phruriastis, Tineomigma, and Wegneria. Note: The source phylogenetic study recognized six genera but listed twelve names in the comprehensive checklist, indicating substantial synonymy (18 generic synonyms, 3 new; 14 specific synonyms, 1 new; 71 new specific combinations established).
Island radiation
The Indian Ocean islands within the Malagasy Subregion 53 of Opogona and Amphixystis. St Helena Island has 41 species of Opogona, with 31 endemic to that island.