Triosteum
Guides
Phytomyza triostevena
Phytomyza triostevena is a recently described leaf-mining fly in the family Agromyzidae, first recognized as a distinct species by Eiseman & Lonsdale in 2021. It was previously conflated with the native holly leafminer Phytomyza ilicicola, from which it has been taxonomically separated based on morphological and biological distinctions. The species develops as a larva within leaves of its host plant, creating serpentine mines between the upper and lower epidermal layers. Its life cycle and host associations appear similar to those of related holly-feeding Phytomyza species, though specific details remain under investigation due to its recent description.
Sympistis forbesi
Forbes' Sallow
Sympistis forbesi is a noctuid moth described in 2014 from the north-central United States. The species is named in honor of entomologist William Trowbridge Merrifield Forbes. Adults are active in late summer with a single annual generation. Larvae are specialized feeders on Triosteum species (Caprifoliaceae), with green bodies and reddish dorsal coloration. The species has experienced range contraction, with apparent extirpation from its eastern distribution in New York and New Jersey.