Anthelidae

Definition

A family of medium to large lappet moths endemic to Australia, characterized by densely hairy bodies, reduced mouthparts in adults, and larvae bearing prominent lateral lappets (fleshy projections) on abdominal segments. Historically placed in superfamily Lasiocampoidea, molecular phylogenetic studies (2008, 2011) reinstated Anthelidae within Bombycoidea alongside silk moths and hawk moths. The family comprises approximately 90 described species in roughly 10 genera, with larvae feeding primarily on Myrtaceae and Proteaceae.

Etymology

From Greek anthelos, 'small valley' or 'hollow', possibly referring to larval lappet morphology or type locality; suffix -idae denotes family rank.

Example

The genus Anthela includes the urticating anthelid moth Anthela nicothoe, whose larvae feed on Eucalyptus and possess venomous setae capable of causing severe dermatitis in humans and livestock.

Related Terms

• Lasiocampidae
• Bombycoidea
• Lepidoptera
• lappet moth
• urticating setae
• Myrtaceae
• Endemism

Usage Notes

Distinguished from related lappet moth family Lasiocampidae by Australian restriction and molecular phylogenetic placement; adults are non-feeding with atrophied proboscises. Larval urticating setae are a notable medical/veterinary concern in eastern Australia. Not to be confused with superficially similar bombycoid families Saturniidae or Endromidae.