On the taxonomic history of Phyllocnistis Zeller, 1848 (Gracillariidae)

For over 150 years, the proper taxonomic placement of Phyllocnistis Zeller has remained largely uncertain. The genus shares morphological and life history traits with several different families of Microlepidoptera, and these characteristics have made it challenging for microlepidopterists to correctly place the genus. Phyllocnistis includes P. citrella Stainton, a globally important economic pest of citrus. We review the taxonomic history of Phyllocnistis and provide a comprehensive list of references.