Ethmiinae
Ethmiinae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Lepidoptera
- Superfamily: Gelechioidea
- Family: Depressariidae
- Subfamily: Ethmiinae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Ethmiinae: /ˌɛθ.maɪˈaɪniː/
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Images
Summary
The Ethmiinae are a subfamily of small moths within the superfamily Gelechioidea, primarily recognized for their larvae that feed on various herbaceous plants and for their flight period during warmer months.
Physical Characteristics
Wingspan 15-28 mm; small moths.
Identification Tips
Recognized by their size and feeding habits, which involves larvae feeding on leaves and flowers of herbaceous plants.
Habitat
Various herbaceous plant habitats.
Distribution
Holarctic; found throughout North America.
Diet
Larvae feed on the leaves and flowers of various herbaceous plants.
Life Cycle
Adults in the subfamily Ethmiinae are usually seen flying from May to July.
Ecosystem Role
Play a role in pollination and the ecosystem dynamics involving herbaceous plants.
Evolution
Considered a separate family (Ethmiidae) by some authors; treated as a subfamily of Elachistidae by others.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Some might confuse them with other small moths in different families.
Tags
- Ethmiinae
- moths
- Lepidoptera
- herbaceous plants