Drepanoidea

Definition

A superfamily of moths (Lepidoptera) commonly known as hook-tip moths, characterized by falcate or hooked forewing apices and reduced proboscises. The group includes the families Drepanidae (hook-tip moths) and, in some classifications, the Semidontidae (formerly included in Drepanidae as the subfamily Thyatirinae). Drepanoidea is placed within the macroheteroceran clade of Lepidoptera.

Etymology

From Greek drepanē (δρεπάνη), sickle or reaping hook, referring to the hooked wing tips characteristic of many species.

Example

The hook-tip moth Drepana falcataria (Pebble Hook-tip) and the thorn moths in the genus Selenia are representative members of Drepanoidea, recognized by their resting posture with wings held tent-like and the distinctive falcate forewing shape.

Synonyms

• hook-tip moths (common name)

Related Terms

• Drepanidae
• Thyatirinae
• Lepidoptera
• macroheterocera
• falcate

Usage Notes

The circumscription of Drepanoidea has been revised; some classifications treat the Thyatirinae as a separate family Semidontidae. The superfamily is distinguished from Geometroidea and Bombycoidea by wing venation, larval morphology, and molecular data. Not to be confused with the species epithet 'drepanoidea' used in some unrelated taxa (e.g., Cautatha drepanoidea, a noctuid moth).