Recent advances in the Glaphyriinae: chipping away at the classification of pyraloid moths with atypical habits and morphology (Lepidoptera: Crambidae)

Authors: Solis, Maria; Metz, Mark; GOLDSTEIN, P. - University Of Maryland; HALLWACHS, W. - University Of Pennsylvania; JANZEN, D. - University Of Pennsylvania; MITTER, C. - University Of Maryland

Submitted to: Entomological Society of America Annual Meeting
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 11/7/2013
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Recent studies in the Glaphyriinae have shed light on this taxonomically challenging subfamily in the Pyraloidea. A recent molecular higher-level study showed that the traditional taxonomic concept of the Glaphyriinae should be expanded to include the Evergestinae and Noordinae. Studies on the host plants of the biologically diverse group showed that it is one of the largest clades of Capparidaceae feeders in Lepidoptera. A recent study of the glaphyriine genus, Schacontia, illustrates that morphological evolution of one of the most challenging genera in the Pyraloidea can be elucidated. Historically, the enormous variation of male genitalia and secondary sexual characters has created taxonomic hurdles, but the discovery and combination of molecular, biological, and immature characters have made progress possible.