Subtropical
Guides
Amorbia vero
Amorbia vero is a tortricid moth species described by Powell & Brown in 2012. It is endemic to southern Florida, where it inhabits subtropical environments. As a member of the genus Amorbia, it belongs to the leafroller moth group, though specific ecological details remain undocumented.
Anastrepha ludens
Mexican fruit fly, Mexfly
Anastrepha ludens, the Mexican fruit fly or Mexfly, is a major agricultural pest native to Mexico and Central America. It is one of the most economically damaging fruit flies, particularly threatening citrus and mango production. The species is notable among Anastrepha species for its subtropical distribution, allowing it to range further north than most congeners. It has been repeatedly introduced to the United States, where it is subject to intensive eradication efforts using sterile insect technique and biological control. The USDA estimates it causes $1.44 billion in damage over five-year periods.
Ancyloscelis apiformis
Apiform Morning glory-Digger
Ancyloscelis apiformis is a solitary bee in the family Apidae, tribe Emphorini. It is known for its association with morning glory flowers (Ipomoea species), from which it derives its common name. The species has a broad distribution across the Americas, from the southern United States through Central America and into South America. As a member of the subfamily Apinae, it exhibits pollen-collecting behavior typical of this group.
Antigastra catalaunalis
Sesame Leafroller, Sesame Pod-borer, Sesame Webworm, Sesame Capsule Borer, Sesame Leaf Webber
Antigastra catalaunalis is a crambid moth whose larvae are major agricultural pests of sesame (Sesamum indicum). Native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia, it has spread globally through human-mediated transport and its own migratory capacity. The species has been documented attacking multiple plant families including Scrophulariaceae and Pedaliaceae, though sesame remains its economically significant host. Laboratory studies indicate a complete life cycle of approximately 26.5 days under controlled conditions.
Athyrma fakahatchee
Athyrma fakahatchee is a moth species in the family Erebidae, described by James Troubridge in 2020. The specific epithet references Fakahatchee Strand, a large cypress swamp in southwestern Florida, indicating a likely association with subtropical wetland habitats. The species belongs to the genus Athyrma, which comprises medium-sized moths primarily distributed in the Americas. As a recently described species, detailed biological information remains limited.
Buthidae
fat-tailed scorpions, bark scorpions, arrowbreasted scorpions
Buthidae is the largest family of scorpions, containing approximately 100 genera and 1300 species as of 2025. Members are typically mid-sized to small, with weak, slender pedipalps and characteristically thickened tails. The family has a cosmopolitan distribution throughout tropical and subtropical environments worldwide. Buthidae includes nearly all medically significant scorpion species, with venoms containing potent neurotoxins that affect ion channels.
Cerataphis orchidearum
Fringed Orchid Aphid
Cerataphis orchidearum is an aphid species in the family Aphididae, commonly known as the fringed orchid aphid. It has been recorded on orchid hosts (Orchidaceae) and on Daemonorops lewisiana, a rattan palm. The species has been observed in association with yellow crazy ants (Anoplolepis gracilipes), which tend the aphids. Its distribution spans multiple continents, including Europe, Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Oceania.
Ctenodactylomyia watsoni
Sea Grape Gall Midge
Ctenodactylomyia watsoni is a gall midge species in the family Cecidomyiidae, commonly known as the Sea Grape Gall Midge. It induces galls on sea grape (Coccoloba uvifera), a coastal shrub native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. The species is well-documented through iNaturalist observations, with over 790 records, indicating it is relatively common and readily observed by naturalists in its range. As a gall-forming insect, it manipulates host plant tissue to create protected structures for larval development.
Ctenotrachelus shermani
Ctenotrachelus shermani is a species of assassin bug in the family Reduviidae, subfamily Stenopodainae. It is a predatory true bug found across a broad geographic range spanning the Caribbean, North America, and South America. The species was described by Barber in 1929. Observations suggest it is established and active in tropical and subtropical regions.
Culex nigripalpus
Florida SLE mosquito
Culex nigripalpus, commonly known as the Florida SLE mosquito, is a medium-sized, dark-colored blood-feeding mosquito and a significant disease vector in subtropical regions. It serves as the primary enzootic vector of Saint Louis encephalitis (SLE) virus to wild birds and the primary epidemic vector to humans in Florida. The species has been demonstrated capable of transmitting West Nile virus, Eastern equine encephalitis virus, dog heartworm, and Avian malaria. Its habit of feeding on both birds and mammals gives it substantial potential for zoonotic transmission from birds to humans.
Dahana atripennis
Black-winged Dahana, Black-winged Dahana Moth
Dahana atripennis, commonly known as the Black-winged Dahana, is a moth species in the subfamily Arctiinae (tiger moths). First described by Augustus Radcliffe Grote in 1875, this species is restricted to the southeastern United States. Adults are active year-round in Florida, with larvae feeding specifically on Spanish moss (Tillandsia usneoides).
Diaphania lualis
Diaphania lualis is a small crambid moth with a wingspan of approximately 19 mm. It occurs in the Caribbean, Mexico, and the southern United States. Adults have been documented in Florida during two distinct periods: September through January and May through June.
Diceroprocta biconica
Florida Keys' Scrub Cicada, Key's cicada
Diceroprocta biconica, commonly known as the Florida Keys' Scrub Cicada or Key's cicada, is a species of cicada in the family Cicadidae. It is found in the Caribbean Sea and North America, with confirmed records from Florida and Isla de la Juventud. Like other cicadas, it has piercing-sucking mouthparts and produces sound through tymbal organs. The species belongs to the genus Diceroprocta, which contains several species distributed across North American deserts and subtropical regions.
Dichomeris acuminatus
Alfalfa Leaf Tier, Alfalfa Leaftier Moth
Dichomeris acuminatus is a small moth in the family Gelechiidae, commonly known as the alfalfa leaf tier. It has an exceptionally broad distribution spanning multiple continents including Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, and the Americas. The species was first described by Otto Staudinger in 1876. Despite its common name suggesting association with alfalfa, the species appears to be a generalist with a wide ecological tolerance given its cosmopolitan range.
Dioprosopa
drone flies
Dioprosopa is a genus of hoverflies (family Syrphidae) in the tribe Syrphini, containing two described species found in the New World. The genus was elevated from subgenus rank in 2018 based on phylogenetic studies. Both species occur in tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, where they contribute to ecosystem services through adult pollination and larval predation on agricultural pests.
Diorhabda sublineata
Subtropical Tamarisk Beetle, Saltcedar Beetle, Saltcedar Leaf Beetle, Tamarisk Leaf Beetle
Diorhabda sublineata is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, commonly known as the subtropical tamarisk beetle. Originally described from Algeria in 1849, it was restored to full species status in 2009 after being treated as a subspecies or synonym of D. elongata for over a century. It is a specialist feeder on tamarisk (Tamarix spp.) and has been introduced to North America as a biological control agent against invasive saltcedar. The species is particularly adapted to subtropical and Mediterranean climates.
Dryophthorinae
Dryophthorinae is a subfamily of weevils (Curculionidae) comprising approximately 1,200 species in 153 genera and ten tribes. The subfamily includes numerous economically significant agricultural pests, particularly of palms, bananas, rice, maize, sugarcane, and bromeliads. Many species are distributed in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, with several having achieved global distributions through international trade in ornamental and agricultural plants. The taxonomic status of Dryophthorinae remains contested; while traditionally treated as a subfamily, at least one major revision has elevated it to family rank as Dryophthoridae.
Emmelina buscki
Tropical Morning Glory Plume Moth
Emmelina buscki is a plume moth in the family Pterophoridae, first described by Barnes and Lindsey in 1921. It is known from North America (Florida, Mexico), Central America, and northern South America. The species has a wingspan of 20–23 mm and exhibits distinct tawny or brownish white coloration with characteristic wing markings. Larvae are specialized feeders on Ipomoea indica, skeletonizing young leaves of this host plant.
Epimorius testaceellus
bromeliad pod borer
Epimorius testaceellus is a pyralid moth commonly known as the bromeliad pod borer. The species is a documented pest of the native bromeliad Tillandsia fasciculata, with larvae causing significant damage by boring into flower pods. It occurs in subtropical Florida and the West Indies, including Jamaica. A parasitoid wasp, Eurytoma aerflora, has been identified as a natural enemy that contributes to population control.
Eurema boisduvaliana
Boisduval's Yellow
Eurema boisduvaliana, commonly known as Boisduval's yellow, is a butterfly in the family Pieridae. It is found from Costa Rica north to Mexico, with regular seasonal migration to southeastern Arizona, southwestern New Mexico, and southern Texas. Rare strays have been recorded in southern Florida. The species inhabits subtropical forests, forest edges, scrublands, roadsides, and pastures.
Flatinae
Flatinae is a subfamily of planthoppers within the family Flatidae, erected by Maximilian Spinola in 1839. Adults are distinguished by bodies that are flattened laterally and tegmina held in a tent-like posture, unlike the related Flatoidinae. The subfamily is cosmopolitan in tropical and subtropical regions, with records from all continents except Antarctica.
Ganyra josephina
Giant White
Ganyra josephina, commonly known as the giant white, is a butterfly in the family Pieridae. It is one of the larger species in its family, with a wingspan reaching up to 96 mm. The species exhibits considerable geographic variation across its broad range, with five recognized subspecies distributed from the southern United States through the Caribbean and Central America to northern South America. Adults are primarily active in late summer and autumn in the northern parts of their range.
Halysidota cinctipes
Florida Tussock Moth, Gartered Halysidota
Halysidota cinctipes is a tussock moth in the family Erebidae, described by Augustus Radcliffe Grote in 1865. Adults have a wingspan of approximately 42 mm. The species occurs across the Caribbean, southeastern and southwestern United States, and possibly extends through Central America to northern South America. Larvae feed on specific host plants including sea grape and hibiscus species.
Heliopetes macaira
Turk's-cap White-Skipper
Heliopetes macaira is a small skipper butterfly in the family Hesperiidae, ranging from southern Texas through Central America to Paraguay. It is closely associated with Turk's-cap (Malvaviscus drummondii), which serves as its larval host plant. Adults are active from spring through late autumn in the northern part of its range, with multiple generations produced annually.
Hemeroblemma opigena
Hemeroblemma opigena is a moth species in the family Erebidae, first described by Dru Drury in 1773. It is distributed from Florida through the Caribbean to Brazil. Females have a wingspan of approximately 80 mm. Adults are active in March in Florida.
Hemipepsis
tarantula hawks, Old and New World Tarantula-hawk Wasps
Hemipepsis is a genus of large spider wasps in the family Pompilidae, commonly known as tarantula hawks. The genus contains approximately 180 species distributed throughout tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, with significant diversity in Africa, Asia, and the Americas. Hemipepsis wasps are distinguished from the related genus Pepsis by subtle differences in wing venation patterns. In South Africa, Hemipepsis wasps serve as exclusive pollinators for 18 plant species across three families (Apocynaceae, Orchidaceae, and Asparagaceae subfamily Scilloodeae). The genus has been extensively studied for its complex male territorial behavior, particularly in the North American species H. ustulata.
Heurtaultia
Heurtaultia is a genus of pseudoscorpions in the family Cheliferidae. It was established by Judson in 2009.
Homoneura
Homoneura is a genus of small flies in the family Lauxaniidae, first described by Van der Wulp in 1891. The genus contains over 700 species worldwide, with more than 220 species documented from China alone. Species are frequently characterized by distinctive wing patterns, including brown spots on the wing membrane and specific venation features used in taxonomic identification. The genus is divided into multiple subgenera and species groups based on morphological characters, particularly male genitalia and wing markings.
Kuwanaspis
Bamboo Thread Scales
Kuwanaspis is a genus of armored scale insects (family Diaspididae) known commonly as bamboo thread scales. The genus comprises approximately 20 species, with Kuwanaspis howardi being the most documented. These insects are specialized feeders on bamboo (Poaceae: Bambusoideae), particularly species in the genera Phyllostachys and Pleioblastus. They are recognized as economically significant pests in bamboo cultivation and serve as hosts for specialized entomopathogenic fungi.
Lasaia sula
blue metalmark, Blue Lasaia
Lasaia sula, commonly known as the blue metalmark or Blue Lasaia, is a small butterfly species in the family Riodinidae. It is native to North America and Central America, with a range extending from southern Texas to Honduras. The species is notable for its metallic blue dorsal wing surfaces and inhabits subtropical forest environments as well as disturbed habitats.
Leptostales
Leptostales is a genus of geometrid moths in the subfamily Sterrhinae, established by Möschler in 1890. The genus contains multiple species, with Leptostales ignifera being the most studied due to its potential as a biocontrol agent for the invasive weed Lantana camara. Members are leaf-feeding moths found in subtropical regions of the Americas.
Leptotes cassius
Cassius blue, tropical striped blue
Leptotes cassius is a small, strikingly blue butterfly in the family Lycaenidae, distributed across the southern United States, Caribbean, Mexico, Central America, and South America. The species exhibits facultative myrmecophily, with larvae tended by Camponotus ants, though ant presence does not significantly influence oviposition decisions. Caterpillars are florivorous, developing inside flower buds of leguminous host plants. Multiple subspecies are recognized, with L. c. theonus serving as the type species of the genus Leptotes.
Mecistocephalidae
Mecistocephalidae is a monophyletic family of soil-dwelling centipedes constituting the sole family of the monotypic suborder Placodesmata. With approximately 170 species across 11 genera, it ranks as the third most diverse family in Geophilomorpha. The family exhibits a distinctive trait among geophilomorphs: leg-bearing segment numbers are generally fixed within species and identical between sexes, ranging from 41 to 101 pairs. Most species inhabit tropical and subtropical regions, though some extend into temperate zones. The genus Mecistocephalus dominates the family with roughly 130 species, most possessing 49 leg pairs.
Meconematinae
quiet-calling katydids, quiet crickets
Meconematinae is a subfamily of katydids (Tettigoniidae) commonly known as quiet-calling katydids or quiet crickets. The subfamily has a worldwide distribution with notable gaps in Antarctica and North America. It comprises three tribes: Meconematini (mostly Europe and Asia, with some African representation), Phisidini (pan-tropical), and Phlugidini (pan-tropical). Members are characterized by their ability to produce ultrasonic sound, with some species being miniature and brachypterous.
Megischus
crown wasp
Megischus is a large genus of crown wasps (family Stephanidae) containing over 90 described species with a cosmopolitan distribution centered in subtropical and tropical regions. The genus is characterized by medium to large body size, with adults ranging from approximately 10–40 mm in length (excluding the ovipositor). Females possess an exceptionally long ovipositor that typically exceeds body length, used to parasitize wood-boring beetle and hymenopteran larvae. The genus serves as an important biological control agent for pest populations of hardwood-damaging insects.
Merothrips
Merothrips is a genus of thrips comprising approximately 19 described species in the family Merothripidae. The genus includes both extant species found in subtropical regions and fossil species preserved in amber. Merothrips species have been documented in South America, particularly Brazil, where multiple species occur in sympatry. A fossil species, Merothrips aithiopicus, was described from Miocene-aged Ethiopian amber.
Mischocyttarus mexicanus mexicanus
Mexican Paper Wasp
Mischocyttarus mexicanus mexicanus is a subspecies of paper wasp in the family Vespidae. It is one of three Mischocyttarus species occurring in the United States and southwestern Canada, all belonging to the subgenus Phi. The species constructs small, uncovered paper combs similar to those of Polistes wasps. Nests have been observed in exposed situations in Texas, though related subspecies may use cavities. This wasp is a social species with flexible colony founding, where 1–20 females may initiate nests together.
Myrmecoblatta
Ant Cockroaches
Myrmecoblatta is a genus of small cockroaches in the family Corydiidae, commonly called ant cockroaches. These insects are myrmecophiles, living in close association with ant colonies. The genus was established by Mann in 1914 and contains species found in the southern United States, Mexico, and Central America. They represent a specialized evolutionary lineage adapted to life within ant nests.
New-genus-on-chrysobalanus
New-genus-on-chrysobalanus is a genus of soft scale insects (family Coccidae) associated with host plants in the genus Chrysobalanus. The genus name indicates its documented occurrence on Chrysobalanus species, which are tropical and subtropical woody plants. As a member of the Coccomorpha, it possesses the reduced morphological features characteristic of scale insects, including sessile adult females. The genus represents a specialized lineage within the Coccidae, though detailed biological studies remain limited.
Odontomachus
trap-jaw ants
Odontomachus is a genus of ants commonly known as trap-jaw ants, characterized by their extraordinary spring-loaded mandibles that can snap shut at speeds among the fastest recorded for animal movements. The genus contains approximately 84 valid species distributed throughout tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. These ants are active predators that use their powerful jaws for hunting, defense, and in some species, locomotion via jumping. Several species have been introduced to new regions, including the southeastern United States, where they are expanding their ranges.
Onthophagus subtropicus
Onthophagus subtropicus is a species of dung beetle in the family Scarabaeidae, first described by Howden and Cartwright in 1963. It belongs to the large genus Onthophagus, which contains over 2,000 species of tunneling dung beetles distributed worldwide. The species name suggests an association with subtropical regions. Like other members of its genus, it is presumed to feed on mammal dung and to exhibit sexual dimorphism with horned males, though specific studies on this species are limited.
Phoebis agarithe
Large Orange Sulphur, Orange Giant Sulphur
A medium to large sulphur butterfly of the family Pieridae, ranging from Peru through Central America and the Caribbean to the southern United States. Adults display bright orange upperwings with variable dark marginal markings. The species exhibits strong flight and is frequently observed visiting flowers in open, disturbed habitats. It has been introduced to Hawaii and occasionally strays northward well beyond its core range.
Phyllocnistinae
Phyllocnistinae is a subfamily of leaf-mining moths within Gracillariidae. The group contains the genus Phyllocnistis, whose larvae are specialized serpentine leaf miners that feed between the upper and lower surfaces of host plant leaves. Members occur in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, with some species achieving pest status on economically important crops.
Polistes bahamensis
Bahamian Paper Wasp
Polistes bahamensis is a large, colorful paper wasp native to the Bahamas, with populations also established in Florida, Louisiana, and coastal areas of the southeastern United States. First described in 1931, this species has undergone extensive taxonomic revision, having been treated as varieties of P. exclamans before being re-elevated to full species status in 1983. It builds characteristic umbrella-shaped paper nests suspended by a stalk, typically under building eaves or palm fronds. The species is notable for its taxonomic complexity, with three originally described color varieties based on geographic distribution within the Bahamas.
Proceratiinae
Proceratiine Ants
Proceratiinae is a subfamily of ants in the poneromorph group, established by Barry Bolton in 2003 when Ponerinae was divided into six subfamilies. It contains three extant genera—Discothyrea, Proceratium, and Probolomyrmex—plus one extinct genus (Bradoponera). Most species are tropical or subtropical with worldwide distribution. These ants are characterized by their cryptobiotic lifestyle, small colony sizes, and specialized predatory habits.
Prorastriopes
Prorastriopes is a genus of globular springtails in the family Bourletiellidae, established in 1947. These Collembola are characterized by their rounded, compact body form typical of the Symphypleona order. The genus has been recorded across diverse tropical and subtropical regions including Africa, the Caribbean, and Florida.
Pseudoleon superbus
Filigree Skimmer
A subtropical dragonfly species in the family Libellulidae and sole member of its genus. Males have predominantly blackish wings with distinctive filigree-like venation patterns; females display reduced black markings in a reticulated pattern. The species occupies a disjunct distribution, with core populations in the southwestern United States and Mexico, and scattered northern records including Colorado. It frequents rocky streams and rivers with slow to moderate current in open, often arid settings.
Rhagoletotrypeta
Rhagoletotrypeta is a genus of tephritid fruit flies native to the Americas, established by Aczél in 1951. The genus currently includes nine described species distributed across the Neotropics, with records from Cuba, Argentina, and other regions. Species in this genus are fruit-infesting flies whose larvae develop inside the fruits of Celtis species (Cannabaceae). The genus is notable for its extended pupal dormancy periods, which can last approximately 12 months in some populations.
Rhyacionia subtropica
Subtropical Pine Tip Moth
Rhyacionia subtropica is a small tortricid moth with a wingspan of approximately 18 mm. It is distributed in the southeastern United States, Cuba, and Belize. The larvae are specialized feeders on pine species, attacking the terminal shoots of their hosts.
Russellaspis pustulans
oleander pit scale, fig pit scale, Akee Fringed Scale
Russellaspis pustulans, commonly known as the oleander pit scale or fig pit scale, is a parthenogenetic scale insect in the family Asterolecaniidae. It is highly polyphagous, feeding on plants across 69 families with documented preference for fig (Ficus carica) and oleander (Nerium oleander). The species is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, completing 2-3 generations annually depending on environmental conditions. It is recognized as a pest of economic importance on fruit trees and ornamental plants, with feeding activity inducing characteristic pitting and galling on host tissues.