Phylogenetic analysis of Lathrotelinae (Lepidoptera: Crambidae)

Lathrotelinae comprises nearly 60 described and many undescribed species of small moths with pantropical distribution. The larvae bore in roots of palms and other large monocots, decreasing host productivity. They have a history of infesting plantations and field crops, and they are emerging pests in the global ornamentals trade; some of these species are new to science. The unity of Lathrotelinae has been recognized only recently, and a classification with generic diagnoses is needed before more taxa can be described. A phylogenetic analysis of all genera recovers two clades: a large radiation of small-bodied species centered on Sufetula Walker, and clade of rare, morphologically variable species in montane tropics. More genera are added to the subfamily, and some are synonymized. Large COI genetic distances and sparse sampling complicate identification in the absence of morphology. Type specimens must be investigated resolve species complexes among the economically important taxa.