Copromorphoidea

Definition

A superfamily of Lepidoptera, now treated as a junior synonym of Carposinoidea (fruitworm moths). These small to medium-sized moths possess broad wings with raised scale tufts, often pectinate antennae in males, and a specialized fringe of scales at the hindwing base. Larvae typically feed within fruits, seeds, or plant tissues. The group belongs to the clade Obtectomera within Apoditrysia, though its exact phylogenetic placement has been historically debated due to convergent larval and pupal traits with other superfamilies.

Etymology

From Greek kopros (dung) + morphe (form), reflecting early taxonomic confusion; the valid name Carposinoidea derives from Greek karpos (fruit) and refers to larval feeding habits.

Example

The genus Carposina, included in Copromorphoidea (now Carposinoidea), contains species whose larvae are notorious fruit borers in orchards, such as the peach fruit moth Carposina sasakii.

Synonyms

• Carposinoidea

Related Terms

• Carposinidae
• Copromorphidae
• Obtectomera
• Apoditrysia
• Tortricoidea
• Immoidea
• fruitworm moth
• junior synonym

Usage Notes

Now rarely used in current taxonomy; specialists prefer Carposinoidea. The name Copromorphoidea persists in older literature and some databases. Not to be confused with similarly named groups in other insect orders.