Psychidae

Definition

A family of moths (Lepidoptera) commonly known as bagworms or case-bearers, characterized by larvae that construct portable, tube-like cases from silk combined with plant material, soil, or debris. Larvae extend from the anterior opening to feed and pupate within the case; adult females are typically wingless and remain inside the case, while males are winged with feathery antennae and locate females via pheromones. The family comprises approximately 1,350 described species distributed globally.

Etymology

From Latin Psyche (a genus name, from Greek psyche 'soul, butterfly') + -idae (family suffix)

Example

The evergreen bagworm (Thyridopteryx ephemeraeformis), a North American psychid, defoliates conifers and broadleaf trees; its female never leaves her twig-reinforced case, while males emerge to fly and mate.

Synonyms

• Bagworm moths
• case-bearers

Related Terms

• Lepidoptera
• larva
• pupa
• Imago
• Sexual dimorphism
• Pheromone

Usage Notes

The common name 'bagworm' also applies to some caddisflies (Trichoptera) with similar case-building larvae, but Psychidae is strictly a lepidopteran family. Distinguish from 'bag moth,' an informal Australian term for certain limacodid larvae. The family is classified in the superfamily Tineoidea; subfamily composition varies among authorities.