Author
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Brown, John |
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BAIXERAS, JOAQUIN - UNIV.DE VALENCIA,SPAIN |
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Submitted to: Zootaxa
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal Publication Acceptance Date: 4/4/2006 Publication Date: 5/8/2006 Citation: Brown, J.W., Baixeras, J. 2006. Macrocydia divergens, a new genus of Grapholitini (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae: Olethreutinae) from Central America. Zootaxa. 1197:45-54. Interpretive Summary: The caterpillars of leaf-roller moths are important pests of forest, ornamental, and agricultural plants, causing millions of dollars in damage annually and eliciting the application of tons of pesticides. In order to focus resources on the detection, exclusion, and/or control of pest species, it is critical to name and illustrate related species that may be of limited or unknown importance so that resources are not wasted. The information and illustrations presented in this paper will be useful to scientists quantifying tropical biodiversity, to taxonomists interested in unusual morphological characters, and to action agencies such as APHIS, whose goal is the exclusion of invasive species. Technical Abstract: Macrocydia divergens, new genus and new species, from Costa Rica and Panama, is described and illustrated. The new genus can be distinguished from other Grapholitini by its remarkably large size, distinctive pale forewing pattern, and elongate, porrect labial palpi. Other interesting morphological features of less diagnostic value include female frenulum with two bristles (usually with three on most Tortricidae), female genitalia with a single large signum (usually paired in most Grapholitini), and a well defined chorda and M-stem in the forewing venation. Owing to its highly divergent appearance and the relatively unremarkable male and female genitalia of the single included species, which are similar to many species of Cydia and Grapholita, it is not possible to identify the closest relative of Macrocydia. |
