Papaya
Guides
Erinnyis
Erinnyis is a genus of sphinx moths (Sphingidae) established by Jacob Hübner in 1819, containing approximately 11 species distributed across the Americas. Several species, notably E. ello and E. alope, are significant agricultural pests whose larvae feed on economically important plants including cassava, rubber, and papaya. The genus is characterized by medium to large hawkmoths with robust bodies and relatively narrow forewings. Eggs of E. ello are known to be parasitized by multiple Trichogramma wasp species.
Toxotrypana
papaya fruit fly
Toxotrypana is an obsolete genus of tephritid fruit flies now synonymized with Anastrepha. The genus was historically recognized for species associated with papaya and related Caricaceae, with Toxotrypana curvicauda (now Anastrepha curvicauda) being the most studied species. These flies are significant agricultural pests in tropical and subtropical regions where papaya is cultivated.
Toxotrypana curvicauda
papaya fruit fly
Toxotrypana curvicauda, commonly known as the papaya fruit fly, is a tephritid fruit fly native to the Americas and now established in Florida and other parts of the southern United States. Males are highly territorial, defending papaya fruit surfaces through aerial combat using specialized midleg armature. Females are attracted to male-produced sex pheromones and oviposit directly into papaya fruits, where larvae develop within the seeds. The species is a significant agricultural pest of papaya (Carica papaya) and has been recorded on alternative hosts including Jacaratia mexicana and Morrenia odorata.