Geometroidea

Definition

A superfamily of moths (Lepidoptera) comprising more than 24,000 described species, including the families Geometridae (inchworm or geometer moths), Uraniidae (swallowtail moths), Epicopeiidae, Sematuridae, and Pseudobistonidae. Members typically have slender bodies, broad wings held flat at rest, and larvae with reduced abdominal prolegs that move with a characteristic looping gait—hence the common name 'inchworms' for geometrid caterpillars.

Etymology

From Geometra (type genus of Geometridae, from Greek geōmetrēs 'measurer, land-measurer') + -oidea (superfamily suffix)

Example

The Geometroidea superfamily includes the Geometridae, whose larvae—lacking prolegs on most abdominal segments—arch their bodies to bring the hind end forward, producing the looping locomotion that gives 'inchworms' and 'spanworms' their common names.

Synonyms

• geometer moth superfamily

Related Terms

• Geometridae
• Lepidoptera
• superfamily
• Uraniidae
• Ditrysia
• inchworm
• Proleg

Usage Notes

Geometroidea is sometimes treated more narrowly, with some classifications restricting it to Geometridae alone; broader modern treatments include Uraniidae, Epicopeiidae, Sematuridae, and Pseudobistonidae. The superfamily belongs to the Ditrysia within Lepidoptera. Formerly included family Hedylidae is now placed elsewhere.