The objective of this project is to produce an inventory of Australian Epiphyas species which, combined with host plant information and reliable identification tools for caterpillars (molecular) and adults (molecular and morphological), will expand our knowledge of the genus, address the concerns of our agricultural trading partners and remove the threat of unjustified quarantine measures.

What is the biosecurity problem?

Epiphyas is a large genus of Australian moths. The light-brown apple moth (Epiphyas postvittana) is a native pest that attacks various horticultural crops. The larvae of Epiphyas caryotis, E. liadelpha, E. pulla and E. xylodes are also known to feed on cultivars in a variety of plant families and are difficult to distinguish from their relative - the light-brown apple moth.

The main outputs of this project are to:

In addition to providing the tools for Epiphyas pest species identification, the revision will inform the management of Australia's biodiversity by providing a sound taxonomic base for all future research involving Australia's indigenous Epiphyas species and their native habitats.

Who will be the end-users of this research?

Agricultural Departments, Quarantine Services, Lepidopterists, Ecologists and other managers of Australia's biodiversity and plant biosecurity.

(Left & middle) ~ Brindabella woodland (ACT); Epiphyas caryotis (male).
(Right top & bottom) ~ molecular + morphological identification tools.