Flannel, Slug Caterpillar, Leaf Skeletonizer Moths and kin

Zygaenoidea

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Lepidoptera
Superfamily: Zygaenoidea

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Zygaenoidea: /ˌzaɪɡiːnɔɪˈdeɪə/

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

Images

Acharia stimulea 0590068 by Robert L. Anderson, USDA Forest Service. Used under a Public domain license.

- 4685 – Adoneta spinuloides – Purple-crested Slug Moth (35864010796) by Andy Reago & Chrissy McClarren. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Acharia extensa by Annika Lindqvist. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Acharia stimulea 4060007 by Arnold T. Drooz, USDA Forest Service. Used under a Public domain license.

- 4685 – Adoneta spinuloides – Purple-crested Slug Moth (19704363640) by Andy Reago & Chrissy McClarren. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

- 4701 – Fulgoraecia exigua – Planthopper Parasite Moth - 42591991205 by Wildreturn. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Summary

The Zygaenoidea is a superfamily of moths that includes several families notably recognized for their unique appearances and ecological roles. Commonly referred to as burnet moths and forester moths, they exhibit a spectrum of forewing characteristics and life cycle behaviors.

Physical Characteristics

Adult moths frequently exhibit a woolly texture with stout bodies. They have bipectinate antennae, which are sometimes found in females. Their forewings range from 4 mm to 40 mm in length.

Identification Tips

Identification can be aided by examining forewing maculation patterns, which vary among the different families within the superfamily. Visual guides to family appearances can assist in narrowing down identification.

Life Cycle

Cocoon construction typically begins with the deposition of final frass pellets that are often chalky white. Limacodid cocoons feature trap-door exits, which the pupa uses to exit the cocoon before eclosion.