Lophochroa

Lophochroa is a genus of moths belonging to the family Tortricidae. The genus was first described by Lord Walsingham in 1907. Species within this genus are characterized by their distinctive wing patterns, which often include a combination of brown, white, and black markings. The genus is found primarily in the Nearctic region, with a few species also occurring in the Palearctic region.

The larvae of Lophochroa species are leaf miners, feeding on the leaves of various host plants. The host plants can include a wide range of trees and shrubs, such as willows, poplars, and maples. The larvae create small, linear mines on the undersides of the leaves, which can cause significant damage to the host plants if left unchecked.

The adult moths of Lophochroa species are typically small, with wingspans ranging from 10 to 15 millimeters. They are often attracted to light and can be found flying around flowers and other sources of nectar. The adult moths are not considered to be a significant pest, but their larvae can cause damage to certain crops and ornamental plants.

The taxonomy of the genus Lophochroa is still a subject of ongoing research, with new species being described and existing species being redescribed as new information becomes available. As of 2021, there are approximately 20 recognized species within the genus, with the majority of them occurring in North America. The genus is named after the Greek words "lopho," meaning "crested," and "chroa," meaning "color," reflecting the distinctive wing patterns of the adult moths.