Batrachedra


Batrachedra is the largest genus in the moth family Batrachedridae, with representatives all over the world. The early stages of most species are unknown. The genus name is derived from the Greek words batrachos, 'frog', and edra, 'seat', referring to the frog-like resting posture of the adult moths. As of 2018 at least some 114 species are known to belong to the genus.

Distribution

There are only three species found in Europe. There is an especially high amount of biodiversity in the Indomalayan realm.

Ecology

Of most species little is known about the ecology, but of those of which it is known, the caterpillars across the genus use a large variety of host plants. At least two mine within pine or spruce needles, one is found respectively on Cyperaceae, Juncaceae, Salix and Populus, one is a pest of pineapples, another a pest of Agave, one feeds on the fruit of Smilax china and another on types of palms from Brazil.

Species

The genus contains the following species: