Sphingidae moths as a new host record for Ophryocystis aff. elektroscirrha (Apicomplexa: Neogregarinida) in Brazil

"Ophryocystis elektroscirrha is a parasite primarily described in Danaini butterflies. We investigated the occurrence of Ophryocystis-like cysts in lepidopterans from collections and field samplings in Mato Grosso, Brazil. We report the first record of Ophryocystis aff. elektroscirrha in Lepidoptera from Brazil and the first worldwide record in the Sphingidae (Eumorpha analis and Agrius cingulata). No infections were detected in Danaus species. Our findings suggest that the known host range of Ophryocystis is underestimated. We highlight the importance of examining non-traditional host groups and utilizing biological collections for parasitological surveys."