Erebinae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Lepidoptera
Superfamily: Noctuoidea
Family: Erebidae
Subfamily: Erebinae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Erebinae: /ˌɛrəˈbaɪnaɪ/

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

Images

CATALOGUE-BM-PLATE CXCIV by Sir GEORGE F. HAMPSON, Bart.. Used under a Public domain license.

Catocala aholibah 61327878 by Robb Hannawacker. Used under a CC0 license.

Catocala agrippina P1460865a by
xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Catocala aholibah 450155 by Ken-ichi Ueda. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Catocala alabamae P1440455a by
xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Catocala agrippina P1460959a by
xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Summary

Erebinae is a diverse subfamily of moths within the Erebidae family, recognized for their varied adaptations for camouflage and defense. They are widely distributed but are most diverse in tropical regions, with a significant number of species and ecological roles.

Physical Characteristics

Erebine moths typically possess medium to large wingspans ranging from 7 to 10 cm (3 to 4 inches), with some species like Thysania agrippina displaying wingspans nearing 30 cm, the widest of all Lepidoptera. Most Erebinae have mottled, drably colored hindwings and cryptically colored forewings that conceal brightly colored hindwings, which are revealed when the moth is disturbed.

Identification Tips

Look for cryptically colored forewings and brightly colored hindwings in genera like Catocala. They often exhibit mottled colors that help them blend into their surroundings.

Habitat

Erebinae are found in various habitats across all continents except Antarctica, with the greatest diversity occurring in tropical regions.

Distribution

Erebinae are distributed across all continents, with significant diversity in tropical areas.

Diet

Erebine caterpillars feed on a wide range of plants, primarily grasses and legumes, and some species are known pests of castor bean, sugarcane, rice, pistachios, and blackberries.

Reproduction

Erebinae undergo complete metamorphosis, including stages as eggs, larvae (caterpillars), pupae, and adults.

Predators

Erebinae are preyed upon by various vertebrate predators, notably birds and bats, from which they have adaptations to evade.

Ecosystem Role

Erebinae play a role in the ecosystem as herbivores in their larval stage, affecting plant populations and serving as prey for various predators.

Economic Impact

Some species of Erebinae are known agricultural pests, affecting crops such as sugarcane and rice.

Evolution

Erebinae were previously classified under Catocalinae but were reclassified based on molecular phylogenetics. They exhibit several identified morphological synapomorphies that reflect their unique evolutionary adaptations.