Two new species of palm-leaf skeletonizers (Lepidoptera: Pterolonchidae: Homaledra Busck)

Authors

  • James E. Hayden

Keywords:

Arecaceae, Caribbean Region, Cuenca del Caribe, Florida, frass, Gulf of Mexico Region, introduced species, especies introducidas, excremento, Golfo de México

Abstract

Two species of palm-leaf skeletonizers (Lepidoptera: Pterolonchidae: Homaledra Busck) that are invasive in Florida, USA are newly described. Homaledra howardi new species is described from Florida and the Dominican Republic. Homaledra knudsoni new species is described from Florida, southern Texas, and Mexico. A lectotype is designated for Homaledra sabalella (Chambers). The three are diagnosed and compared with other congeners, and Homaledra is compared with other Pterolonchidae. The larvae of the three common species feed on epidermis of palm foliage, causing significant damage.

 

Se describen dos especies de palomillas de hojas de palma (Lepidoptera: Pterolonchidae: Homaledra Busck) que son invasivas en Florida, EE. UU. Homaledra howardi nueva especie se describe de Florida y la República Dominicana. Homaledra knudsoni nueva especie se describe de Florida, el sur de Texas y México. Se designa un lectotipo para Homaledra sabalella (Chambers). Las tres se diagnostican y comparan con otros congéneres, y Homaledra se compara con otros Pterolonchidae. Las larvas de las tres especies comunes se alimentan de la epidermis del follaje de las palmeras, causando daños importantes.

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Published

2021-04-05

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Section

Articles