Choreutidae

Definition

A family of small moths in the order Lepidoptera, commonly known as metalmark moths for the often metallic or iridescent markings on their wings. Historically placed in superfamilies Yponomeutoidea or Sesioidea, Choreutidae is now treated as its own superfamily (Choreutoidea) within the clade Apoditrysia, though its precise relationships to other lepidopteran lineages remain under study. The family comprises approximately 400 described species divided into two subfamilies: Brenthiinae and Choreutinae. Adults typically have broad, somewhat triangular forewings and reduced mouthparts; larvae often feed on leaves of ferns, legumes, or other herbaceous plants, sometimes skeletonizing foliage or rolling leaves.

Etymology

From Choreutis (type genus, from Greek choreutēs 'dancer') + Latin -idae (family suffix).

Example

The genus Brenthia (subfamily Brenthiinae) includes species whose larvae are leaf miners on ferns, while Choreutis species often skeletonize leaves of Urticaceae and other host plants.

Synonyms

• Metalmark moths

Related Terms

• Lepidoptera
• Apoditrysia
• Brenthiinae
• Choreutinae
• Yponomeutoidea
• Sesioidea
• Glyphipterigidae
• leaf miner
• skeletonization

Usage Notes

The common name 'metalmark moths' distinguishes this family from the metalmark butterflies (family Riodinidae), which independently evolved similar metallic wing patterns. The family's taxonomic placement has been unstable; molecular studies continue to refine its position within the Ditrysia.