Megalopygidae

Definition

A family of moths (Lepidoptera) commonly known as flannel moths or crinkled flannel moths, characterized by densely hairy larvae and adults with soft, woolly scaling that gives them a flannel-like appearance. The family includes species whose caterpillars are notable for urticating (stinging) setae that can cause painful skin reactions in humans and other vertebrates.

Etymology

Example

The puss caterpillar (Megalopyge opercularis), larva of a megapylgid moth, is among the most venomous caterpillars in North America, with its concealed urticating spines beneath soft, flannel-like hair.

Synonyms

• flannel moths

Related Terms

• Lepidoptera
• Zygaenoidea
• Urticating hairs
• setae
• Megalopyge
• puss caterpillar
• moth families

Usage Notes

Sometimes treated as a superfamily Megalopygoidea or placed within Zygaenoidea depending on phylogenetic hypothesis; the family's distinctive larval morphology—dense, often colorful 'tussock' hair covering concealed venomous spines—makes it immediately recognizable to field entomologists despite taxonomic revisions of its broader placement.