Rhopalocera

Definition

A suborder of Lepidoptera that includes all butterflies, characterized by their clubbed antennae.

Etymology

From Greek 'rhopalon' meaning 'club', and 'keras' meaning 'horn', referring to the club-shaped antennae.

Example

The Rhopalocera are easily distinguished from moths by their clubbed antennae and generally daytime activity.

Related Terms

• Butterflies
• Lepidoptera

Usage Notes

Rhopalocera are often used in studies of ecology and evolution due to their diversity and wide distribution.