Cosmet Moths

Cosmopterigidae

Classification

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

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Cosmopterigidae: /kɔzmɔptərɪˈdʒɪdiː/

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

Images

Cosmopterix nonna by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Asymphorodes aporia by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Ithome edax by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Teladoma helianthi by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Asymphorodes diamphidius by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Asymphorodes nebrias by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

Cosmopterigidae, commonly known as cosmet moths, is a family of small moths within the order Lepidoptera. This family is notable for its diversity and small size, with larvae that often feed internally on live plant material, showcasing varied ecological roles and adaptations.

Physical Characteristics

Small to minute moths with a wingspan of 4-26 mm. Long labial palps curving upward, often sickle-shaped. Forewings and hindwings are lancelike, with the forewing shape varying from narrow to extremely narrow, while the hindwing is usually extremely narrow. Wings are often brightly marked.

Identification Tips

Look for the distinct shape and markings on the wings, as well as the long, curving labial palps which are characteristic of this family.

Habitat

Much of North America and various global habitats; diverse ecological settings depending on host plants.

Distribution

Common across much of North America and globally with around 1,628 species in 106 genera worldwide, being most diverse in the Australian and Pacific regions with about 780 species.

Diet

Diverse feeding habits including bark and leaf miners, seed borers, gall makers, seed and flower bud feeders, and scavengers of dead plant material. One genus is known to be parasitic on armored scale insects.

Life Cycle

The tiny larvae feed internally on the leaves, seeds, and stems of their host plants, indicating a complex life cycle that includes stages transitioning from egg to larva.

Ecosystem Role

Plays a role in various ecosystems as decomposers and as part of the food web, impacting plant health and diversity.

Collecting Methods

Netting adults during flight season
Attracting with light traps

Preservation Methods

Pinning
Drying specimens