Bromeliad Pod Borer, Epimorius testaceellus Ragonot (Insecta: Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)

The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences. This document provides an in-depth profile of the bromeliad pod borer, Epimorius testaceellus, a pyralid moth that damages the flower pods of the bromeliad Tillandsia fasciculata. It covers the moth's distribution, description, host plants, natural enemies, and behavior. The moth is found in subtropical Florida and the West Indies, with larvae causing significant damage to the host plant. The document also highlights the role of a parasitoid wasp, Eurytoma aerflora, in controlling moth populations. First published 1998.