Many-plume Moths

Alucitoidea

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Lepidoptera
Superfamily: Alucitoidea

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Alucitoidea: /ˌæljʊsɪˈtɔɪdiə/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

"Feathered" moth by Butoodimus. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Alucita montana by CBG Photography Group, Centre for Biodiversity Genomics. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

Alucitoidea is a superfamily of many-plumed and false plume moths distinguished by their unique wing structure, which consists of narrow strips of membrane. They are not classified as primitive micromoths, but instead have complex evolutionary relationships within Lepidoptera.

Physical Characteristics

Wings consist of many narrow strips of membrane around the major veins, typically more than three. When at rest, the plumes partly overlap and appear as solid wings, characterized by a marked lengthwise pattern and an uneven edge.

Identification Tips

Look for wings with a plume-like appearance; they have distinct narrow strips rather than a continuous membrane.

Evolution

Not considered primitive members of Lepidoptera; closely related to plume moths (Pterophoroidea). Taxonomic relationships are complex and sometimes disputed.

Similar Taxa

Pterophoroidea (plume moths)
Copromorphoidea (fruitworm moths)