Chenopodiaceae

Guides

• Lasiopterini

  Lasiopterini is a tribe of gall midges (Cecidomyiidae) whose larvae induce galls on host plants. Species in this tribe have documented associations with Chenopodiaceae, particularly Atriplex species in southern California. The tribe is classified within the subfamily Cecidomyiinae. Specific biological details remain incompletely documented for many member species.

  Cecidomyiidaegall-midgeAtriplexChenopodiaceaesouthern-California

• Pegomya hyoscyami

  beet leafminer, spinach leafminer

  Pegomya hyoscyami is a small grey fly in the family Anthomyiidae, commonly known as the beet leafminer or spinach leafminer. The species is economically significant as a pest of leafy greens, with larvae that mine between leaf surfaces causing substantial damage to crops. Multiple generations occur annually, with activity beginning in spring. The species belongs to a complex of four closely related species that were historically confused.

  agricultural-pestleaf-minerChenopodiaceaemultiple-generationscultural-control-preferred

• Scrobipalpa atriplicella

  goosefoot groundling moth

  Scrobipalpa atriplicella is a small gelechiid moth native to Eurasia, now established as an introduced species in North America. Adults have a wingspan of 10–14 mm and exhibit two generations per year. The species has emerged as a significant agricultural pest on quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) in both Europe and North America, where larval feeding on seeds and foliage can cause complete crop loss. Originally associated with wild Chenopodiaceae including Chenopodium album and Atriplex species, its host range has expanded to include cultivated crops.

  pestagriculturalinvasiveleaf-minerbivoltineChenopodiaceaequinoa-pestgelechiid