Burrowing Webworm Moths

Acrolophinae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Lepidoptera
Superfamily: Tineoidea
Family: Tineidae
Subfamily: Acrolophinae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Acrolophinae: /ˌækrɵloʊˈfaɪniː/

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

Images

Summary

Acrolophinae, known as Burrowing Webworm Moths or Tube Moths, is a subfamily of moths within the order Lepidoptera, encompassing around 300 species found primarily in the New World, specifically in tropical regions, with some occurrence in the United States.

Physical Characteristics

Larvae up to 30 mm; adults usually brown, gray, or tan with few markings; labial palps often hairy, giving a furry-headed appearance.

Identification Tips

Look for the hairy labial palps and typical coloration of the adults.

Habitat

Larvae construct long silken tubes in the soil; commonly found in various habitats in the Southwestern United States.

Distribution

Southwestern United States and as far north as Pennsylvania and Wisconsin; mostly tropical, with majority of species in Central and South America.

Diet

Some larvae feed on soil detritus and the roots of grasses and other herbaceous plants; others are coprophagous.

Life Cycle

At least one species from May onward, with many species flying from mid to late summer in the southwest.

Ecosystem Role

Larvae may contribute to soil health by breaking down organic matter.

Evolution

Monophyly has been strongly confirmed for this subfamily.

Similar Taxa

Tineidae