Amorbia spp.

Status

EXOTIC | NATIVE

PORT INTERCEPT | DOMESTIC SURVEY

Taxonomy

Amorbia Clemens (Tortricidae: Tortricinae: Sparganothini)

Overview

The genus Amorbia contains approximately 40 described species. Most are distributed in the Neotropics, although a few are present in the Nearctic. Adults are characterized by the absence of ocelli, a dark line of scales on the apical area of the hindwing, and several genitalic characters, including: gnathos absent; aedeagus lacking external armature; corpus bursae sac-shaped; signum large and band-shaped; and sterigma developed into a pair of lateral pockets (Phillips-Rodríguez and Powell 2007Phillips-Rodríguez and Powell 2007:
Phillips-Rodríguez, E., Powell, J. A. 2007. Phylogenetic relationships, systematics, and biology of the species of Amorbia Clemens (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae: Sparganothini). Zootaxa. 1670: 1-109.).

The majority of Amorbia larvae arriving at United States ports are from Central and South America. Larvae have been intercepted on Crataegus (hawthorn), Limonium (lavender), Ocimum (basil), Persea (avocado), Rubus (blackberry, raspberry, etc.), and cut flowers. Interceptions are very common although most specimens are not identified to species.

Late instar larvae can be distinguished by the dark brown to black lateral bands on the head and prothoracic shield. Identification of early instars is difficult as the lateral bands are often absent and molecular diagnostics may be necessary to confirm identity. For more information on Amorbia larvae, please consult the fact sheet and keys on LepIntercept.

Two of the three species treated here, A. cuneanum and A. emigratella, are occasional pests of various crops in western North America. Adults and larvae are most often encountered as non-target captures during surveys for exotic pests such as Epiphyas postvittana. The third species, A. humerosana, is a common species in eastern North America but is not considered economically important. For photos of additional non-targets not covered here, visit the Moth Photographers Group link below.

Native species

Amorbia cuneanum

Amorbia emigratella

Amorbia humerosana

Links

Additional photos and distribution maps for species in North America available at Moth Photographers Group.