Tent Caterpillar and Lappet Moths
Lasiocampoidea
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Lepidoptera
- Superfamily: Lasiocampoidea
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Lasiocampoidea: //ˌlæsi.oʊˈkæmpɔɪdiə//
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Summary
Lasiocampoidea is a superfamily encompassing diverse moth species, primarily known for their large, hairy caterpillars and distinctive cocoon behavior. The family is notable for its diversity and the ecological roles its members play in their environments.
Physical Characteristics
Caterpillars are large, often hairy with skin flaps on prolegs and dorsal glands. Adult moths are large-bodied with broad wings and hairy legs and bodies. Wing veining is distinct, with specific characteristics in both forewings and hindwings. Moths are typically brown or grey.
Identification Tips
Look for large hairy caterpillars with distinctive lateral tufts of hair and additional dorsal tufts. Adults may retain elongated mouthparts or have reduced mouthparts. Identification can be aided by observing the unique wing structure and coloration.
Habitat
Found in a variety of habitats where host trees and shrubs for feeding and nesting are available, often in wooded areas.
Distribution
Over 2,000 species are distributed worldwide, likely with many undescribed forms.
Diet
Caterpillars feed on leaves of various trees and shrubs, often utilizing these plants for camouflage of their cocoons.
Life Cycle
Lifecycle includes egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (in a cocoon), and adult moth stages. Adults emerge from cocoons after a period of pupation.
Reproduction
Females lay large numbers of flat eggs that are either smooth or slightly pitted. Tent caterpillars deposit eggs in masses, covered with a hardening material.
Ecosystem Role
As herbivores, caterpillars play a role in plant population dynamics and serve as food for various predators.
Collecting Methods
- Light traps for adults at night
- Visual searches of host plants for caterpillars and eggs
- Netting during daytime for diurnal species
Preservation Methods
- Drying specimens for mounting
- Ethanol preservation for larval stages
- Freezing specimens to kill and preserve integrity
Similar Taxa
- Lasiocampinae
- Chondrosteginae
- Chionopsychinae
- Macromphaliinae
Misconceptions
Commonly confused with other groups of moths including those in the family Pyralidae which are also referred to as snout moths.
Tags
- Lasiocampoidea
- Lasiocampidae
- Tent Caterpillars
- Lappet Moths
- Moths