Sematuridae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Lepidoptera
Superfamily: Geometroidea
Family: Sematuridae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Sematuridae: //sɛməˈtjʊəraɪdiː//

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

Summary

Sematuridae is a family of moths within the superfamily Geometroidea, consisting of approximately 30 species divided into two subfamilies. Their biology is poorly understood, and they exhibit distinctive morphological features such as long setae and specialized antennae.

Physical Characteristics

Large day- or night-flying moths, usually tailed, similar in general appearance to Uraniidae. They have long setae overhanging the compound eyes and thickened antennae that are often clubbed or hooked at the tip.

Identification Tips

Look for the characteristic long setae above the compound eyes and the clubbed or hooked antennae. The absence of a tympanal organ is also diagnostic.

Habitat

Primarily found in the Neotropics and South Africa, typically associated with diverse ecosystems including tropical and subtropical environments.

Distribution

One species of Apoprogoninae in South Africa; approximately 29 species of Sematurinae in the Neotropics, with possible additional representatives from genera Anurapteryx and Lonchotura.

Evolution

The evolutionary relationship of Sematuridae within Macrolepidoptera remains uncertain, with ongoing investigations involving DNA sequencing to determine their closest relatives.

Similar Taxa

Uraniidae