Gracillariidae

Pronunciation: /gra-sil-la-ree-ee-dae/

Category: Taxonomy

Singular: Gracillariidae

Plural: Gracillariidae

Definition

A family of moths characterized by leafmining larvae, comprising about 1,740 species.

Full guide

Read the full Gracillariidae guide for identification, examples, and taxonomy.

Etymology

Named after the type genus *Gracillaria*, which itself likely derives from Latin *gracilis* meaning 'slender' and *aria*, a suffix for describing a place.

Example

The Gracillariidae family contains many species of leafminers, known for their intricate larval feeding patterns.

Related Terms

Leafminer
Lepidoptera

Usage Notes

Gracillariidae are divided into multiple subfamilies, including Gracillariinae, Lithocolletinae, and Phyllocnistinae.