Ermine Moths

Yponomeutidae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Lepidoptera
Superfamily: Yponomeutoidea
Family: Yponomeutidae

Images

Summary

Yponomeutidae, or ermine moths, is a family within the order Lepidoptera, known for their white coloration and communal larval behavior. They are primarily located in tropical regions and some have economic impacts as pests.

Physical Characteristics

Ermine moths vary in wingspan from 8 to 31 mm (0.3 to 1.2 in), with smooth scales on the heads and upward-curved labial palps. The wings are long, often fringed at the hindwings, and coloration is usually white, pale grey, or drab with dark speckles.

Identification Tips

Look for small to medium-sized moths with white or pale grey bodies and dark speckles. Adult moths are predominantly nocturnal.

Habitat

Various habitats; larvae are found on a variety of host plants.

Distribution

Most species are concentrated in tropical regions; some are found in temperate zones.

Diet

Larvae are leaf-webbers, leaf skeletonizers, leafminers, or needleminers, feeding on various plants.

Life Cycle

Overwinter as eggs on trees. Larvae tend to be communal webbers before pupating.

Reproduction

Details specific to mating and egg-laying are not provided; larvae develop from eggs laid on host plants.

Ecosystem Role

Adults serve as minor pollinators, while larvae can impact the health of host plants.

Economic Impact

Some species are pests in agriculture, forestry, and horticulture due to their feeding habits.

Evolution

The family Yponomeutidae has undergone recent taxonomic revisions, with molecular analyses leading to the reclassification of various subfamilies and related families.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

The term 'ermine moth' is also used for some unrelated snout moths, which can lead to confusion.