Immoidea

Definition

A superfamily of pantropical moths (Lepidoptera: Obtectomera) comprising the single family Immidae, with approximately 250 species in ten genera. Members are characterized by often bright coloration and diurnal activity, and their larvae feed on leaves of both dicotyledonous plants and conifers including Podocarpus. The phylogenetic placement of Immoidea within Obtectomera remains unresolved.

Etymology

From Immidae (the type family) + -oidea (superfamily suffix)

Example

The superfamily Immoidea is represented in tropical regions by the genus Imma, which alone contains more than half of all described immoidean species.

Related Terms

• Immidae
• Obtectomera
• Lepidoptera
• Imma
• diurnal moth

Usage Notes

Immoidea is treated as a monotypic superfamily, containing only Immidae. The group's uncertain position within Obtectomera reflects ongoing phylogenetic debate in lepidopteran systematics. Many species are diurnal and brightly colored, unusual traits among moths that have led to their informal designation as 'false burnet moths' in some regions.