Scoopwing Moths
Epipleminae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Lepidoptera
- Superfamily: Geometroidea
- Family: Uraniidae
- Subfamily: Epipleminae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Epipleminae: /ˌɛpɪˈplɛməˌnaɪ/
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Images
Summary
Epipleminae, or scoopwing moths, are a subfamily of the Uraniidae family, notable for their diverse morphology and unique sexual dimorphism in the tympanal organ, found mainly in the Pantropics.
Physical Characteristics
Smallish and drab species with pleated or crenulate hindwings. Larvae have five pairs of prolegs, distinguishing them from Geometridae larvae which have two pairs.
Identification Tips
Look for the distinctive pleated or crenulate hindwings in adults and the five pairs of prolegs in larvae.
Habitat
Primarily found in Pantropical regions with some species extending into temperate regions.
Distribution
Widespread throughout the Pantropics, with limited distribution into temperate regions.
Diet
Larvae are known to feed on various host plants; three species are noted as minor pests of commercial plants.
Economic Impact
Three species known to be minor pests of commercial plants: Leucoplema dohertyi, Epiplema fulvilinea, and Dysaethria moza.
Evolution
First described by George Hampson in 1892; previously treated as a separate family but now classified as a subfamily of Uraniidae.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Previously placed erroneously with Geometridae or Drepanidae based on phenetic similarities.
Tags
- Epipleminae
- Scoopwing Moths
- Uraniidae
- Lepidoptera
- Moths