New-world-endemic
Guides
Burnsius
New World Checkered-Skippers
Burnsius is a genus of New World checkered-skippers in the butterfly family Hesperiidae, erected by Nick V. Grishin in 2019 based on genomic analysis of 250 representative skipper species. The genus was created to contain approximately 12 species formerly classified in Pyrgus, with the number of described species later expanding to 14. These butterflies are characterized by their distinctive checkered wing patterns and are found exclusively in the New World.
Hemileucinae
Buck and Io Moths
Hemileucinae is a subfamily of Saturniidae containing approximately 630 species endemic to North and South America. The subfamily is characterized by larvae bearing venomous urticating spines or setae, with some species capable of causing severe medical reactions in humans. Notable genera include Lonomia, whose caterpillars can cause life-threatening envenomation, and Automeris, known for their striking eyespot patterns. Adults are typically medium to large moths with reduced or non-functional mouthparts.
Metaxyphloeus
Metaxyphloeus is a genus of small rostrate beetles in the family Laemophloeidae, endemic to the New World. The genus comprises five described species distributed from southern Texas to Bolivia. Adults are characterized by their elongated heads (rostra), moderate size (~2 mm), and distinctive morphological features. Despite their distinctive appearance, the biology and immature stages remain poorly known. The function of the rostrum is currently unknown.
Mimallonidae
Sack-bearer Moths, Mimallonids
Mimallonidae is a family of approximately 300-320 species in 43-44 genera, constituting the sole family of the superfamily Mimallonoidea. These moths are endemic to the New World, with the vast majority occurring in the Neotropics and only five species known from the United States. Adults are externally similar to moths in the superfamilies Bombycoidea and Drepanoidea, a resemblance that historically caused taxonomic confusion. The family has been reorganized based on molecular phylogenetics, now recognizing seven subfamilies.
Myzinum
New World Banded Thynnid Wasps
Myzinum is a genus of thynnid wasps containing approximately 63 recognized species, with 10 species occurring in North America. Adults measure 7–24 mm and exhibit extreme sexual dimorphism: males are slender with long, straight antennae and a prominent curled pseudostinger at the abdomen tip, while females are robust with short, coiled antennae and stout legs adapted for digging. These wasps are parasitoids of scarab beetle grubs, particularly Phyllophaga species, and are used as biological control agents. They are most diverse in the Neotropics and are commonly observed visiting autumn wildflowers such as goldenrod and thoroughwort.
Nausigaster
Nausigaster is a genus of hoverflies (Syrphidae) endemic to the New World, containing approximately 15 described species. The genus was established by Williston in 1884. Larvae have been documented developing in decaying cacti and bromeliads, suggesting a specialized association with these plant substrates. Adult records span from Argentina to Mexico, with recent collections extending known distributions in Colombia and Argentina.
Neocoelidiinae
Neocoelidiine leafhoppers
Neocoelidiinae is a subfamily of leafhoppers (Cicadellidae) endemic to the New World, with highest diversity in the Neotropical region. The subfamily contains approximately 200 valid species across 36 genera arranged in two tribes: Neocoelidiini and Krocodonini. Members are distinguished by exceptionally long antennae and distinctive head morphology. Many species exhibit vibrant coloration. The group was originally classified within Coelidiinae but is now recognized as a separate subfamily.
Nystaleinae
Nystaleinae is a subfamily of prominent moths in the family Notodontidae, established by Forbes in 1948. The subfamily comprises approximately 44 genera and 377 species, with recent taxonomic revisions recognizing greater diversity than previously documented. Nystaleinae is distributed exclusively in the Americas, primarily in the Neotropics. Recent phylogenomic studies have revealed that the diurnal subfamily Dioptinae is nested within Nystaleinae, challenging traditional morphological classifications.
Ornidia
jewel flies
Ornidia is a small genus of metallic hoverflies (Syrphidae) native to the New World. Species range from 2.3–4.2 mm in body length and display distinctive metallic coloration. Ornidia obesa, the most widespread species, has been introduced to the Pacific, Asia, and Africa through human commerce. The genus comprises four described species.
Trichiotinus
Bee-like Flower Scarabs, Flower Scarabs
Trichiotinus is a genus of flower chafers in the family Scarabaeidae, comprising approximately 8 described species native to the New World. The genus is commonly known as bee-like flower scarabs due to the resemblance of some species to bees. Members are primarily associated with flowers, where adults feed and mate. Several species have restricted distributions, making them regional specialties in Texas, Oklahoma, and Florida.