Tropical
Guides
Achilini
Achilini is a tribe of planthoppers within the family Achilidae, characterized by their flattened, often cryptically colored bodies and association with fungal substrates. Members of this tribe are distinguished from other achilid tribes by specific wing venation patterns and genitalia structures. The group is primarily tropical and subtropical in distribution, with many species exhibiting complex host relationships with fungi. Achilini represents one of the more species-rich tribes within Achilidae.
Achlyodidini
Achlyodidini is a tribe of skipper butterflies in the subfamily Pyrginae, characterized by unusually-shaped wings with squarely truncated forewing tips and often vivid coloration. The tribe comprises approximately 16 genera and is restricted to the Americas, primarily in tropical regions. Formerly included within a broad concept of Pyrgini, Achlyodidini is now recognized as a distinct tribe based on phylogenetic studies, though it remains the closest relative to Pyrgini sensu stricto. The tribe includes notable genera such as Eantis (sicklewings) and Achlyodes.
Agaonidae
fig wasps
Agaonidae is a family of minute chalcidoid wasps comprising the pollinating fig wasps, which maintain an obligate mutualism with Ficus species. Females are winged and darkly pigmented, while males are typically wingless and pale. The family has undergone significant taxonomic revision based on molecular phylogenetics, with former subfamilies Epichrysomallinae, Otitesellinae, Sycoecinae, Sycoryctinae, and Sycophaginae excluded and transferred to other families.
Alaruasa
Alaruasa is a genus of planthoppers in the family Fulgoridae, described by Distant in 1906. Members belong to the tribe Poiocerini within the subfamily Lystrinae. The genus is part of the diverse and visually striking fulgorid fauna of tropical regions. As with many fulgorid genera, Alaruasa species likely exhibit the elongated head processes characteristic of this family, though specific morphological details require individual species examination.
Amblypsilopus
Amblypsilopus is a large genus of long-legged flies (Dolichopodidae) containing approximately 350 described species. The genus is distributed across tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, with particularly high diversity in the Afrotropical region where about 60 species occur, including 25 on Madagascar alone. The genus is possibly polyphyletic and requires further taxonomic revision. Species identification relies heavily on male genitalia morphology, particularly the surstylus and cercus, along with male secondary sexual characters on the legs.
Amblypygi
whip spiders, tailless whip scorpions, amblypygids
Amblypygi is an ancient order of arachnids comprising approximately 280 species across five families. These nocturnal predators are characterized by extremely elongated first pair of legs modified as sensory "whips" and raptorial pedipalps for capturing prey. They lack venom glands, silk production, and the tail-like flagellum present in their relatives the whip scorpions (Uropygi). Several species exhibit unusual social behaviors including maternal care and kin recognition.
Ammodonus tropicus
Ammodonus tropicus is a species of darkling beetle in the family Tenebrionidae, described by Kirsch in 1866. It belongs to the tribe Ammodoniini, a group of small to medium-sized tenebrionids often associated with sandy or arid habitats. The species epithet 'tropicus' suggests a tropical distribution, which aligns with records from Colombia and Mexico.
Ampulex
cockroach wasps, jewel wasps
Ampulex is a large cosmopolitan genus of cockroach-hunting wasps in the family Ampulicidae, comprising over 130 species concentrated in tropical regions of the Old World. Fewer than 15 species occur in the New World, and fewer than 5 are native to Europe or the United States. The genus is notable for its specialized parasitoid biology: females sting cockroaches with venom that induces a state of hypokinesia—suppressed escape response and reduced locomotion without paralysis—then lead the subdued host to a shelter, lay eggs on its legs, and seal it inside where the larva consumes the living host. The emerald jewel wasp Ampulex compressa is the best-studied species and has spread globally alongside its host cockroaches.
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.
Ancyloxypha arene
Tropical Least Skipper
Ancyloxypha arene, commonly known as the Tropical Least Skipper, is a small grass skipper butterfly in the family Hesperiidae. It is one of the smallest skippers in North America. The species occurs from the southern United States through Central America. Adults are active throughout much of the year in tropical regions, with more restricted flight periods in temperate areas.
Anteos
Angled Sulphurs, angled-sulphurs
Anteos is a genus of butterflies in the family Pieridae, commonly known as angled-sulphurs. The genus contains three recognized species: Anteos clorinde (white angled sulphur), Anteos maerula (angled sulphur), and Anteos menippe (orange-tipped angled-sulphur). These butterflies are found in tropical regions of the Americas. Anteos menippe has been used in physiological research, including the first direct electrocardiographic characterization in Lepidoptera.
Anteos maerula
Yellow Angled-Sulphur, angled sulphur
Anteos maerula is a large Pieridae butterfly commonly known as the yellow angled-sulphur. Its native range extends from Peru through Central America to Mexico, with occasional vagrant individuals recorded as far north as the central and eastern United States. The species is distinguished by its angular wing margins and substantial wingspan, making it one of the larger sulphur butterflies in the Americas.
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.
Aphrissa statira
statira sulphur
Aphrissa statira is a medium-sized yellow butterfly known for its dramatic annual migrations in tropical regions of the Americas. The species exhibits sexual dimorphism, with males displaying brighter lemon-yellow upper wings and females appearing paler yellow to greenish-white. It has been extensively studied for its navigational abilities, including use of Earth's magnetic field for orientation during migration. The species ranges from the southern United States through Central America to northern Argentina, with notable population densities in the Amazon basin.
Araecerini
Araecerini is a tribe of fungus weevils within the family Anthribidae. Members are characterized by their association with fungal resources and distinctive morphological features. The tribe contains multiple genera distributed across tropical and subtropical regions. These beetles are primarily mycophagous, feeding on fungi at various life stages.
Argyrodes
Dewdrop Spiders
Argyrodes is a genus of comb-footed spiders (Theridiidae) commonly known as dewdrop spiders. The genus contains approximately 85 species distributed worldwide, with highest diversity in tropical regions. These spiders are best known for kleptoparasitism—living on the webs of larger orb-weaver spiders and feeding on small prey items that the host ignores. Some species exhibit arachnophagy, preying upon host spiders or their eggs when opportunities arise. The genus exhibits notable sexual dimorphism in cephalothorax structure, with males possessing modified cephalic regions used during copulation.
Ascalaphinae
split-eyed owlflies, owlflies
Ascalaphinae is the type subfamily of the owlfly family Myrmeleontidae (order Neuroptera), distinguished by the diagnostic apomorphy of a ridge dividing each large compound eye—hence 'split-eyed owlflies.' This trait is shared with the subfamily Ululodinae. The subfamily is predominantly tropical in distribution and represents one of two main lineages of living Ascalaphidae, the other being Haplogleniinae with unsplit eyes. The first fossil record dates to the Miocene, suggesting Paleogene origin.
Augochloropsis
metallic sweat bees
Augochloropsis is a genus of metallic sweat bees in the family Halictidae, comprising at least 140 described species. These bees are characterized by brilliant metallic coloration, typically bright green or blue-green, though some species exhibit gold, red, or purple hues. The genus displays remarkable behavioral plasticity, with social organization ranging from solitary to communal, semisocial, and primitively eusocial nesting. Augochloropsis is restricted to the New World, with the majority of species occurring in tropical and subtropical regions and a smaller number extending into temperate North America.
Aulacodes
Aulacodes is a genus of moths in the family Crambidae, first described by Achille Guenée in 1854. The genus comprises approximately 40 described species distributed across tropical and subtropical regions, primarily in the Americas, Africa, and Asia. Species were historically classified in the subfamily Hydrocampinae, though modern Crambidae taxonomy has restructured many of these groups. The genus is distinguished from related crambid genera by specific wing venation patterns and genitalia characteristics, though detailed biological studies of most species remain limited.
Banisia
Banisia is a genus of moths in the family Thyrididae, established by Walker in 1863. The genus is classified within the subfamily Striglininae and contains approximately 12 described species distributed across tropical and subtropical regions. Species within this genus exhibit the characteristic wing patterns and morphology typical of thyridid moths, including intricate reticulate or banded forewing markings. The genus has been documented from Africa, Asia, and Indian Ocean islands including the Seychelles.
Banisia myrsusalis
sapodilla borer, sapota midrib folder
Banisia myrsusalis is a small moth in the family Thyrididae, described by Francis Walker in 1859. It is widely distributed across tropical and subtropical regions including the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Australia. The species is known for its association with sapodilla and related trees, where larvae fold leaf midribs and mine tissues. Adults are distinguished by greyish-brown wings with linear dark striations and yellow costal margins.
Biblidini
Biblidini is a tribe of brush-footed butterflies within the subfamily Biblidinae, commonly known as tropical brushfoots. The tribe contains numerous genera distributed primarily in tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, with some representatives in the Old World tropics. Members of this tribe are characterized by reduced forelegs typical of the family Nymphalidae, and many species exhibit striking wing patterns with bold colors and distinctive markings.
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.
Caccoplectus
Caccoplectus is a genus of myrmecophilous (ant-loving) rove beetles in the family Staphylinidae, subfamily Pselaphinae. The genus was established by Sharp in 1887 and contains approximately nine described species. These beetles are associated with ant colonies, a common ecological strategy among pselaphine beetles. Most species have been described from the Neotropical region, particularly Central America.
myrmecophileant-associatedpselaphinerove-beetleNeotropicalStaphylinidaePselaphinaeArhytodinitropicalant-colony-inhabitantinquilinemicrohabitat-specialistleaf-littersoil-dwellingcrypticrarely-collectedsmall-beetlemorphologically-specialized1887-descriptionSharpCentral-AmericaPanamaColeopteraPolyphagaStaphyliniformiaStaphylinoideaPselaphitaegenus-levelnine-speciesconicusdegallierilucidusnuttingipectinatusschwarzisentisspinipessucineasspine-legged-pselaphidChandlerWoldaSchaeffer190619761986type-species-unknownrarely-observediNaturalist:-2-observationsCatalogue-of-Life-acceptedGBIF-acceptedNCBI-acceptedEukaryotaMetazoaHexapodaInsectaArthropodaAnimaliabeetleinsectarthropodanimalCalliscelio
Calliscelio is a genus of parasitoid wasps in the family Scelionidae, comprising 97 described species worldwide. The genus was erected by Ashmead in 1893. Members are egg parasitoids of crickets (Gryllidae), with at least one species, C. elegans, recognized as a widespread "tramp species" likely dispersed by human commerce.
Calvatomina
Calvatomina is a genus of globular springtails (order Symphypleona) in the family Dicyrtomidae, established by Yosii in 1966. These small hexapods are characterized by their rounded body form and are distributed across tropical and subtropical regions including the Amazon, Andes, Caribbean, and Southeast Asia. The genus belongs to the subfamily Dicyrtominae, a group known for their distinctive body shape and reduced mouthpart structures. Records from iNaturalist indicate active observation and documentation of this genus, with approximately 170 observations contributing to its study.
Camarotini
Camarotini is a tribe of weevils within the family Curculionidae, subfamily Curculioninae. Members of this tribe are characterized by their association with palms (Arecaceae), with larvae typically developing in palm tissues. The tribe contains several genera of economic importance due to their impact on coconut and other palm crops.
Carcharodini
Carcharodini is a tribe of skipper butterflies within the subfamily Pyrginae, comprising approximately 35 genera distributed throughout tropical regions worldwide. The group is considered plesiomorphic and morphologically inconspicuous compared to other Pyrginae tribes. Taxonomic boundaries have been revised based on phylogenetic studies to maintain monophyly, with Carcharodini now treated as distinct from the historically broader Pyrgini. Members occur in both New World and Afrotropical regions, with most genera restricted to the Americas.
Carebara
Marauder Ants, Carebara Thief Ants
Carebara is a large genus of myrmicine ants comprising over 200 species distributed worldwide in tropical and Afrotropical regions. These ants are among the smallest known, with workers often barely visible to the naked eye. The genus exhibits remarkable worker polymorphism, including specialized soldier castes with phragmotic (door-blocking) head shapes in some African species. Queens are notably much larger than workers, creating one of the most extreme size dimorphisms in ants. Many species are cryptic inhabitants of soil and leaf litter, with poorly known biology.
Carventinae
Carventinae is a subfamily of flat bugs (Aradidae) comprising over 364 species across 118 genera. The group is predominantly tropical in distribution and exhibits a strong trend toward flightlessness, with only seven genera retaining large, functional wings. New Zealand hosts eight recognized genera, six of which are endemic to the region.
Chalcedectus
Chalcedectus is a genus of chalcid wasps constituting the sole genus of the monotypic family Chalcedectidae. Formerly classified within the subfamily Cleonyminae of Pteromalidae, molecular phylogenetic studies placed it in a distinct lineage within the 'weird clade' of Chalcidoidea. The genus comprises approximately 20 described species distributed across tropical and subtropical regions. Most species are parasitoids of wood-boring beetles.
Charaxinae
leafwings, leafwing butterflies
Charaxinae is a subfamily of approximately 400 species of nymphalid butterflies commonly known as leafwings. They are primarily tropical in distribution, with some species extending into temperate regions of North America, Europe, China, and southern Australia. Adults are robust, fast-flying butterflies that frequently feed on non-floral liquid sources including carrion, dung, and rotting fruit. The subfamily exhibits substantial morphological diversity across its constituent tribes.
Chloroprocta
Chloroprocta is a genus of blow flies in the family Calliphoridae, subfamily Chrysomyinae. The genus was described by Wulp in 1896. Species in this genus are associated with carrion and decomposing organic matter. The genus contains relatively few described species and is primarily distributed in the Old World tropics and subtropics.
Chonocephalus
Chonocephalus is a genus of scuttle flies in the family Phoridae, first described by Wandolleck in 1898. The genus contains approximately 80 described species distributed across tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. Members are associated with decaying organic matter and some species have documented relationships with army ants (Ecitoninae). The genus is characterized by distinctive morphological features of the head and antennae.
Chrysaster on-canavalia
Chrysaster on-canavalia is a species of lady beetle (family Coccinellidae) in the subfamily Chilocorinae. This species is known from limited documented records, primarily associated with tropical regions. It belongs to a genus characterized by small, often inconspicuous coccinellids that differ in morphology from the more familiar brightly colored lady beetles. The specific epithet references Canavalia, a legume genus, suggesting a potential ecological association.
Coccotrypes distinctus
Coccotrypes distinctus is a species of bark beetle in the family Curculionidae. It has a broad, disjunct distribution spanning tropical and subtropical regions across multiple continents and oceanic islands. The species was described by Wood and Bright in 1992 and has been recorded from Sri Lanka, Pacific Islands from New Guinea to Hawaii, the southern United States, Honduras, Puerto Rico, Jamaica, Suriname, and Guiana. As a member of the genus Coccotrypes, it likely exhibits the typical morphology of small, cylindrical bark beetles adapted for life beneath bark.
Coecobrya
Coecobrya is a genus of springtails (Collembola: Entomobryidae) characterized by pronounced troglomorphic adaptations in cave-dwelling species. The genus includes both surface and subterranean species, with Thai cave species exhibiting the most extreme troglomorphy known for Collembola in Southeast Asia. Many species display elongated antennae, legs and furca, reduced pigmentation, and eye loss. The genus has been recorded from caves in Thailand, South Africa, and other regions, with molecular studies supporting species discrimination using COI, 16S rDNA and 28S rDNA markers.
Coenobitidae
Land Hermit Crabs, Terrestrial Hermit Crabs
Coenobitidae is the family of terrestrial hermit crabs, comprising approximately 17-18 species in two genera. Adults are fully terrestrial but depend on marine environments for reproduction. Females return to the ocean to release eggs; larvae develop through planktonic zoeal stages before settling. Juveniles acquire empty gastropod shells and migrate to land, where they continue development. The family is distributed throughout coastal tropical regions worldwide.
Collomeninae
Collomeninae is a subfamily of moths within the family Nolidae, established in 2012 by Zahiri, Lafontaine, and Schmidt. The subfamily comprises approximately ten genera distributed primarily in tropical regions of South America and Southeast Asia. The type genus is Collomena. The subfamily is distinguished from other Nolidae by a combination of morphological characters related to wing venation and genitalia structure.
Colobopsis obliqua
Oblique Gate-keeper Ant
Colobopsis obliqua is a species of ant in the subfamily Formicinae, first described by Smith in 1930. It belongs to a genus known for specialized defensive behaviors, including the 'exploding ant' phenomenon where minor workers rupture their bodies to release toxic secretions. The species is commonly referred to as the 'Oblique Gate-keeper Ant' due to the characteristic head shape of major workers used to block nest entrances.
Corethrellidae
frog-biting midges
Corethrellidae are a family of tiny hematophagous flies in the order Diptera. The family contains a single genus, Corethrella, with approximately 105 extant and seven fossil species worldwide. Females are obligate external parasites of frogs, locating hosts by eavesdropping on male anuran mating calls using their Johnston's organ. The family has a fossil record extending to the Lower Cretaceous, approximately 110 million years ago.
Cryphalus mangiferae
mango bark beetle
A tiny tropical bark beetle in the weevil family Curculionidae (subfamily Scolytinae) that attacks mango trees (Mangifera indica). Native to southern Asia, it has spread to tropical regions worldwide and is recognized as a vector of plant-pathogenic fungi causing mango wilt disease. In Pakistan and other regions, it poses a serious threat to mango cultivation.
Cryptochetidae
Cryptochetidae is a small family of minute flies (2–4 mm) in the order Diptera. Adults are typically metallic blue-black with a stout build, broad high head, and clear wings. The family is distinguished by reduced or absent aristae on the antennae, a trait reflected in its name meaning 'hidden bristles'. Larvae are endoparasitoids of scale insects (Coccidae), with some species used in biological control. Approximately 20–30 species are known across three genera, primarily distributed in tropical regions.
Cryptognatha
Cryptognatha is a genus of lady beetles (family Coccinellidae) established by Mulsant in 1850. The genus contains at least 40 described species, with members distributed across tropical and subtropical regions. At least one species, Cryptognatha nodiceps, has been studied as a potential biological control agent against scale insects.
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.
Cubaris murina
little sea isopod, little sea roly poly, little sea pillbug, little sea pill woodlouse
Cubaris murina is a small terrestrial isopod (woodlouse) in the family Armadillidae, notable for its ability to conglobate—roll into a complete ball when disturbed. The species reaches approximately 11 mm in length and 5 mm in width. It has a remarkably broad geographic distribution spanning tropical and subtropical regions across multiple continents, with populations in the Caribbean, South America, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific. The species has become popular in the exotic pet trade due to its bioactive utility in terrariums and the development of several color morphs through selective breeding.
Cyladini
Cyladini is a tribe of weevils in the family Brentidae, subfamily Apioninae. The tribe includes economically significant pests of sweet potato, particularly the sweetpotato weevil (Cylas formicarius), which causes substantial damage to storage roots in tropical and subtropical production regions. Members of this tribe are characterized by their association with Convolvulaceae host plants and their status as specialized root-feeding pests.
pestagriculturesweet-potatoConvolvulaceaeintegrated-pest-managementCylas-formicariustropical-agriculturesubtropical-agricultureroot-feeding-weevilstorage-root-damageeconomic-pestbiological-controlcrop-protectionsoutheastern-United-Statesglobal-food-securitylow-input-farmingdrought-tolerant-cropnematode-interactionsBeauveria-bassianaentomopathogenic-nematodesresistant-varietiescrop-rotationcover-cropsIPMBrentidaeApioninaeColeopteraInsectaHexapodaArthropodaAnimaliaClaire-SchloemerAuburn-UniversityUniversity-of-Wisconsin-MadisonJournal-of-Integrated-Pest-ManagementScott-GrahamKathy-LawrenceCovingtonBonitaBeauregardOrleansguava-root-knot-nematoderoot-knot-nematodewirewormcucumber-beetleflea-beetlePurpureocillium-lilacinumbiopesticidegreen-bridge-effectmustardglucosinolatepeanutbahiagrasssandy-soildrought-adaptationbiofuelanimal-feednutritional-valuefood-securitysustainable-agricultureenvironmental-impactmicrobial-controlfungal-pathogenentomopathogenic-fungusbiological-nematicidenematode-egg-parasitismpest-managementagricultural-entomologycrop-lossyield-reductionroot-qualitymarketabilityintegrated-managementcultural-controlselective-chemical-useproductivitynatural-processesversatilityglobal-cultivationtropical-regionssubtropical-regionssoutheastern-U.S.domestic-productionrevenueacreageharvestfarminggrowerbreedingresearchcultivar-developmentevolving-threatspest-pressuresoil-healthfield-preparationwinter-habitatinsect-habitatparasitisminfestationdamagelosschallengedefensearsenalbattlewarresilienceadaptationinnovationstrategysustainabilitylivelihoodnourishmentfood-productionagricultural-researchentomologyplant-protectioncrop-sciencehorticultureroot-croptuberstorage-organfeeding-injurygallingcracked-rootsstunted-growthwater-uptakenutrient-uptakepathogen-interactionexacerbated-damagevariety-selectionhardy-varietyrobust-performancehigh-yieldnematode-resistancepest-resistancevulnerabilityspreading-pestpopulation-reductionsoil-improvementspring-plantingtoxic-compoundnatural-propertymicrobial-productformulationapplicationevaluationmaximizationpotentialurgencygrowing-threatcomprehensive-strategybalanceenablementessential-cropsecuritydefiancedifficult-conditionsmenacing-pestsformidable-threatsproduction-continuationface-to-facethreatdiseaseresilient-cropgrowing-conditionsmenacestorysurfacebeneathrelentlessadversaryfavorconditionpowerfulfoetinyparasiteattackformationdiminishabilityresultunattractiveworsematterinteractionsignificantdevastatingruininflictfurthercompromisegrapplethankfullyfarmerbeginselecthardywithstandtraditionalgaintractionvulnerablehighlightneedcontinuebreedeffortdevelopcapableopposeevolveaftersturdyculturalmanagementrotationcovercroppinglinetakeyearoffgrowrotatenon-hostproveeffectivereducepopulationbreathelifeimprovehealthsuppressprepareexamplecontaincompoundcallbreakdownreleasesubstancewaryproviderepresentmethodharnesshelpwinsporefungusinfectkilltypetapdifferentmicroscopicanimalparasitizeplususecombatattentioneggaidfightminimizeimpactdespiteadvancequestionremainrequiremaximizeparticularlyurgentposekeyenhanceapproachintegratepracticecontrolselectivechemicalenablenaturalprocessnutritionalvalueessentialcropglobalfoodregionsupportmillionaddresspressureinnovativesustainableensurelivemanyformidableproductionalthoughcomefaceresilientabledefydifficultreadmorejournalintegratedClaireSchloemerPh.D.studentconductearnmasterdegreeemailsharelinkfriendopennewwindowprintFacebookLinkedInBlueskyMastodonXRedditThreadsrelateddiscoverfromtodaysubscribegetlatestpostsendyourCylasformicariussweetpotatosweetpotatoweevilphotocourtesyshowherecucumberbeetleroot-knotnematodeharmU.S.guidedetailvarietyoptionbeloveddelicioustastebenefitbrightcolorrankseventhmostimportantworldtropicalsubtropicalareaaroundservefeedsourcegoodpicklow-inputstylewelladaptedsandysoildroughtUnitedStates2022over130,000acregeneratenearly600southeasternleaddomesticAuburnUniversityweatherarticlepublishMarchcolleagueScottGrahamKathyLawrencevariousamongplant-parasiticspecificallyrootsystemcausegallplantwaternutrientstuntedgrowthyieldcrackmakeinteractpathogenexacerbateinsectknowstorage7annualsouthernfleaqualityleaveeconomicownresistancebettermeanwhilenewerhighrobustperformancehoweverresistguavaspeciesspreadnextseasonwinterfieldspringtoxicgreenbridgeeffecthabitatfeedersymptominfectionbiologicalpropertymicrobeBeauveriabassianaagentformulateenvironmentallyfriendlyproducteasyapplysimilarlybeneficialentomopathogenicnematicidePurpureocilliumlilacinumsolutionenvironmentalresistantnematode-resistantcultivarcomprehensivecultivationWisconsin-MadisoncschloemerwisceduCyrestinae
Daggerwing and Map Butterflies
Cyrestinae is a small subfamily of brush-footed butterflies (Nymphalidae) comprising three genera: Cyrestis, Chersonesia, and Marpesia. The subfamily was established after taxonomic revision split the former Cyrestini and Pseudergolini tribes, which were briefly combined before being recognized as separate subfamilies. Cyrestinae is now considered the sister group to the larger Nymphalinae subfamily. The group exhibits a disjunct tropical distribution, with Marpesia restricted to the Neotropics and Cyrestis and Chersonesia occurring primarily in the Oriental region with some Afrotropical representation.
Deinopidae
Net-casting Spiders, Ogre-faced Spiders
Deinopidae is a family of cribellate spiders known for their distinctive net-casting hunting strategy. They construct small rectangular capture webs held between their elongated front legs, which they stretch to two or three times their relaxed size before propelling themselves forward to entangle prey. The family includes three genera: Deinopis and Asianopis (ogre-faced spiders with enlarged posterior median eyes for night vision), and Menneus (humped-back spiders lacking enlarged eyes). These spiders are sit-and-wait predators with excellent night vision, hunting primarily after dark while resting cryptically during daylight hours.