Diamondback-moth
Guides
Diadegma
Diadegma is a genus of ichneumonid wasps established by Förster in 1869. Species in this genus are koinobiont parasitoids, primarily attacking lepidopteran larvae. Several species, notably D. insulare and D. semiclausum, have been extensively studied and deployed as biological control agents against agricultural pests, particularly the diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella). The genus contains over 200 described species with cosmopolitan distribution.
Plutellidae
diamondback moths
Plutellidae is a family of small to medium-sized moths commonly known as diamondback moths, named after the economically significant pest species Plutella xylostella. The family contains approximately 26 described species in the genus Plutella, with additional genera including Eidophasia, Rhigognostis, and Homadaula. Members are characterized by elongated wings with long fringes, often appearing sickle-shaped, and generally drab coloration with banding or markings. The family has undergone taxonomic revision, with subfamilies Praydinae and Scythropiinae elevated to family status or transferred to other families.