tortricid

Tortricid refers to any member of the moth family Tortricidae, a large group in the order Lepidoptera commonly known as tortricid or leafroller moths. The family is cosmopolitan and comprises roughly 10,000 described species in several subfamilies, including Tortricinae, Olethreutinae and Chlidanotinae. Tortricids are especially diverse in temperate regions.

Adults are small to medium-sized moths with a characteristically compact, bell- or square-shaped resting posture due to the way the forewings fold. Wings are often patterned or mottled, aiding camouflage. The life cycle is holometabolous, with egg, larval (caterpillar), pupal and adult stages. Larvae show a range of feeding habits but are best known for rolling, folding or tying leaves with silk to create feeding shelters; some bore into buds, shoots, fruits or seeds.

Ecologically, tortricids occupy many habitats and can be important herbivores in natural and managed ecosystems. Several species are significant agricultural and forestry pests—causing damage to fruit trees, ornamental plants and timber—while others have limited economic impact. Management practices include monitoring with pheromone traps, cultural controls, biological agents (parasitoids and pathogens) and targeted insecticides as part of integrated pest management.

Tortricidae is of ongoing interest to entomologists for its species diversity, varied life histories and economic importance. Taxonomic and ecological research continues to refine knowledge of species limits, host associations and control methods.