Flower-borer
Guides
Alucitidae
Many-plumed Moths
Alucitidae, or many-plumed moths, are a family of small Lepidoptera distinguished by their unique wing structure. The family contains approximately 200 described species worldwide, primarily in the genera Alucita and Pterotopteryx. Larvae are typically gall-inducers or borers in flowers, fruits, and shoots of dicotyledonous plants, particularly in families Caprifoliaceae, Rubiaceae, and Dipsacaceae. Adults are frequently attracted to light and exhibit varying flight periods, with many species being bivoltine and hibernating as adults.
Lorita scarificata
chrysanthemum flower borer
Lorita scarificata, commonly known as the chrysanthemum flower borer, is a small tortricid moth native to North America and introduced to Hawaii. The species was described by Meyrick in 1917 and is notable for its association with cultivated and wild flowering plants. Adults are diminutive with a wingspan of only 10–12 mm. The species has gained minor notoriety as a pest of ornamental chrysanthemums and agricultural crops.
Pyrausta inornatalis
Inornate Pyrausta Moth
Pyrausta inornatalis is a small crambid moth native to North America, first described in 1885. Adults are characterized by uniformly reddish-pink forewings without markings. The species has established non-native populations in Japan since 2019 and in southwestern France since 2024. Larvae feed primarily on Salvia species, boring into unopened flower buds.