Carpenter-moths
Guides
Comadia
agave red worm (larvae of C. redtenbacheri), chinicuil (larvae of C. redtenbacheri), gusano rojo del maguey (larvae of C. redtenbacheri)
Comadia is a genus of carpenter moths (Cossidae) established in 1911, comprising 11 described species distributed in North America, particularly Mexico. The genus is best known for Comadia redtenbacheri, whose larvae are economically significant as edible insects (chinicuil or gusano rojo del maguey) and agricultural pests of Agave species. Larvae are internal borers of agave tissues, with a long, non-uniform life cycle exceeding one year. Adults are nocturnal with documented calling and mating behaviors. The genus has been subject to taxonomic revision and molecular studies to clarify species boundaries.
Givira
carpenter moths
Givira is a genus of carpenter moths (family Cossidae, subfamily Hypoptinae) established by Walker in 1856. The genus contains approximately 70 described species distributed across the Neotropics and southwestern North America. Several species are economically significant as wood-boring pests of cultivated plants, including Givira ethela, which damages grapevines in California. Adults are typically nocturnal with variable wing coloration ranging from dark brown to satiny white.
Hypoptinae
carpenter moths, goat moths
A subfamily of carpenter moths (Cossidae) distributed primarily in the Neotropical region, with some genera extending into North America. The subfamily includes approximately 10 recognized genera, including Givira, Langsdorfia, and Hypopta. Hypoptinae are characterized by their generally robust body form and nocturnal habits. Many species exhibit distinctive wing patterns ranging from dark, mottled coloration to pale, nearly white forms. The subfamily has been subject to recent taxonomic revision, with new species and genera described from Andean and Brazilian localities.
Zeuzerinae
Leopard Moths
Zeuzerinae is a subfamily of carpenter moths (Cossidae) commonly known as leopard moths. The group includes approximately 60 genera distributed across tropical and temperate regions worldwide. Many species are known for their striking spotted or patterned wing coloration. Larvae of several genera, including Zeuzera and Polyphagozerra, are significant wood-boring pests that tunnel into living trees and woody plants.