Casebearer Moths

Coleophoridae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Lepidoptera
Superfamily: Gelechioidea
Family: Coleophoridae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Coleophoridae: /ko.leˈɔ.fɔ.rɪ.deɪ/

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

Images

Holcocera dives var. basipallidella by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Coleophora ramitella by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Coleophora ladonia by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Coleophora euryaula by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Coleophora alabama by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Coleophora mexicana by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

The Coleophoridae, or casebearer moths, are a family of small moths known for their unique larval habit of living in portable cases made from plant material, with a wide distribution but are primarily common in temperate areas.

Physical Characteristics

Small to very small moths with a wingspan of 5-26 mm. The wings are lance-like, usually of one color, and may be streaked or dusted with other colors.

Identification Tips

Look for slender build and wing margins that consist of a fringe of hairs. Adults exhibit usually one color of wings, sometimes with streaks or dust.

Habitat

Moist areas, often seeking shelter in bark during overwintering.

Distribution

Most common in the Palearctic; rare in sub-Saharan Africa, South America, and Australia. Present on all continents, but predominantly found in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere.

Diet

Larvae feed on the leaves, flowers, or seeds of host plants.

Life Cycle

Coleophorid larvae mine in leaves and construct protective cases from plant material and silk, living in these cases throughout their life; some species overwinter as fully grown larvae.

Reproduction

Moths typically seek moist areas for procreation; details on specific mating behaviors are not provided.

Ecosystem Role

As herbivores, they may play a role in plant population control; also serve as prey for other animals.

Evolution

Estimated 95% of described species are included in Coleophora, with ongoing discussions about species classification.

Similar Taxa

Psychidae (bagworm moths)

Misconceptions

They are distinct from bagworm moths which are neotenous in females, whereas Coleophoridae females have fully developed wings.