Specialized-herbivores
Guides
Eumaeini
hairstreaks, elfin butterflies
Eumaeini is a diverse tribe of gossamer-winged butterflies (family Lycaenidae), typically placed in the subfamily Theclinae but sometimes treated as a separate subfamily Eumaeinae. The tribe contains over 1,000 described species, predominantly distributed in the Neotropical realm, with some representatives extending into the Nearctic region and isolated occurrences in the Palearctic. Members are commonly known as hairstreaks or elfin butterflies, characterized by often intricate wing patterns and, in many species, thin tail-like projections on the hindwings. The group has been subject to extensive taxonomic revision due to high species diversity and morphological complexity.
Euteliidae
Euteliid Moths
Euteliidae is a small family of moths in the superfamily Noctuoidea, comprising approximately 540 species globally. The family is characterized by highly specialized larval hostplant relationships with lactiferous plants containing high levels of resin or latex. Molecular phylogenetic analyses recognize two subfamilies: Euteliinae and Stictopterinae, with Stictopterinae further divided into tribes Stictopterini and Odontodini. The family has been the focus of recent taxonomic revision due to the discovery of cryptic species complexes and polyphyletic genera requiring reclassification.
Meligethinae
Pollen Beetles
Meligethinae is a subfamily of pollen beetles within the family Nitidulidae, comprising approximately 700 described species across about 50 genera. All species are associated with flowers or inflorescences of host plants, with the vast majority feeding on dicots and approximately 7% on monocots. The subfamily is widespread in the Palearctic, Afrotropical, and Oriental Regions, but absent from the Neotropics and Antarctica. Adults serve as effective pollinators of their host plants, including palms and various flowering crops.