Phyllanthaceae
Guides
Epicephala
leafflower moths
Epicephala is a genus of small moths in the family Gracillariidae, notable for obligate pollination mutualisms with plants in the tribe Phyllantheae (Phyllanthaceae). Many species actively pollinate their host plants while simultaneously acting as seed predators, with larvae developing inside host fruits and consuming a portion of the developing seeds. This specialized relationship has evolved independently at least five times and involves over 500 host plant species. Some species have secondarily lost the pollinating behavior and function solely as seed parasites.
Melanchroia chephise
white-tipped black, snowbush spanworm
Melanchroia chephise is a moth in the family Geometridae, commonly known as the white-tipped black or snowbush spanworm. It ranges from the southern United States through Central America to Paraguay. The adult exhibits striking black wings with white apical patches, while the gregarious larvae feed on foliage of plants in the Phyllanthaceae family, particularly Breynia and Phyllanthus species. Despite occasional outbreaks that defoliate ornamental plantings, the species typically causes no lasting harm to hosts and poses no risk to humans.