Pyraustinae

insect subfamily

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July 17, 2026

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The Pyraustinae are a subfamily of moths within the family Pyralidae or Crambidae. These are typically small to medium-sized, slender moths. Their larvae are known as webworms or leaftiers and feed on plant foliage, stems, or fruits. Some species are considered agricultural pests, such as the European corn borer (Ostrinia nubilalis), which infests maize and other plants. Other larvae may bore into plant stems or feed on grasses. While many species are inconspicuously colored, some can have bright metallic markings. The adult moths are the reproductive stage of the life cycle, with nutrition for flight often obtained from nectar.12345

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Lepidoptera
Annotated classification
…grasses, sedges, or rushes; subfamily Pyraustinae contains more than 7,400 species, feeding mainly on stems and fruits of various plants; many Pyraustinae species are considered pests, but some have been used in management of aquatic weeds. Superfamily Geometroidea Almost 22,000 species; adults with abdominal tympana; some authorities classify each of…
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…grasses, sedges, or rushes; subfamily Pyraustinae contains more than 7,400 species, feeding mainly on stems and fruits of various plants; many Pyraustinae species are considered pests, but some have been used in management of aquatic weeds. Superfamily Geometroidea Almost 22,000 species; adults with abdominal tympana; some authorities classify each of…
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