Global-pest
Guides
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.
Rhyzopertha dominica
Lesser Grain Borer, American Wheat Weevil, Australian Wheat Weevil, Stored Grain Borer
Rhyzopertha dominica, the lesser grain borer, is a monotypic species in the family Bostrichidae and one of the most destructive pests of stored cereal grains worldwide. It is particularly damaging to wheat, but also infests corn, rice, sorghum, peanuts, and other stored products. The beetle is known for its ability to bore directly into intact kernels, causing both quantitative weight loss and qualitative degradation through contamination. Its global distribution in grain storage facilities makes it a major target of integrated pest management programs, with populations showing increasing resistance to phosphine fumigants and other chemical controls.
Sitobion avenae
English Grain Aphid
Sitobion avenae, the English grain aphid, is a globally distributed pest of cereal crops. It feeds on phloem sap and transmits yellow dwarf viruses to wheat, barley, and oats. Population dynamics are influenced by temperature, water availability, and host plant quality. The species exhibits complex reproductive strategies including both cyclical and obligate parthenogenesis. Management challenges include insecticide resistance, variable biotypes, and climate change impacts on dispersal and adaptation.