Family Erebidae, subfamily erebinae, and outgroups for phylogenetic analysis Targeted loci. Lepidoptera

This project aims to improve our understanding of the evolution of the moth subfamily Erebinae. This diverse subfamily contains up to 10000 species. Erebinae utilize a wide range of larval hostplants, including legumes and grasses. A number of erebine species are pests of agriculture and forestry. Moths in this subfamily also have developed a remarkable array of anti-predator adaptations. An improved understanding of the phylogenetic relationships of this subfamily will strengthen future studies on the evolution of larval host preferences and the origins of pest species, as well as studies examining predator defense evolution in insects.