Clearwing Moths
Sesiidae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Lepidoptera
- Superfamily: Cossoidea
- Family: Sesiidae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Sesiidae: /sɛˈsiːɪˌdiː/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Sesiidae, or clearwing moths, are a family of diurnal moths in the Lepidoptera order, notable for their Batesian mimicry of various wasps and bees, rendering them an interesting study in evolutionary biology. They have extensive global distribution and significant ecological roles, particularly as pests in agriculture.
Physical Characteristics
Clearwing moths are characterized by their hymenopteriform Batesian mimicry, often resembling wasps and bees in coloration and markings. They possess elongated forewings that are commonly narrow in the basal half and have areas where scales are nearly absent, leading to a marked transparency. Many species have an elongated abdomen with an anal tuft and may exhibit brightly colored stripes or rings in yellow, red, or white. The hind legs of some species are elongated. In European species, wingspan ranges from 8 to 48 mm.
Identification Tips
Identification of clearwing moths can be made by observing their wasp-like appearance, elongated forewings, and translucent wing areas. Additionally, their diurnal behavior and hovering flight mimic those of various Hymenoptera.
Habitat
Sesiidae larvae typically bore into wood or burrow in the roots of plants. They are found in various ecosystems including forests, orchards, and agricultural settings.
Distribution
Sesiidae are widespread, with over 160 genera and 1452 recognized species globally, primarily occurring in tropical regions but also found in the Holarctic region, including over a hundred species in Europe.
Diet
Most adult clearwing moths feed on nectar from flowers, while larvae are borers in trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants, feeding on the plant material.
Life Cycle
The life cycle of many Sesiidae consists of a larval stage that may last 1-4 years, depending on the species. After hatching, larvae bore into the host plant and complete pupation typically the following season, with some species pupating underground. The pupal stage lasts approximately 10 to 20 days.
Reproduction
Females emit sex attractants to signal readiness to mate, laying eggs singly on host plants. After hatching, larvae quickly bore into the host tissue.
Ecosystem Role
Clearwing moth larvae can be pests to crop plants and trees, with some species causing significant damage to fruit-tree or timber cultivation.
Economic Impact
Some species, especially those in the Melittia genus, are known to be pests of agricultural crops such as squashes and other fruit trees.
Collecting Methods
- Pheromone lures
Evolution
The Sesiidae family exhibits convergent evolution by mimicking Hymenoptera species as a defense mechanism against predation. This mimicry is considered a form of Batesian mimicry.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Due to their appearance, clearwing moths are often mistaken for wasps or bees, despite being entirely different taxa within the Lepidoptera order.
Tags
- Lepidoptera
- moths
- Sesiidae
- clearwing moths
- Batesian mimicry
- agriculture pests