Planthopper Parasites

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Epipyropidae: /ˌɛpɪpaɪˈrɒpɪdiː/

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Summary

Epipyropidae is a small family of moths known as planthopper parasites, where the unique lifecycle involves ectoparasitic larvae that exclusively target planthoppers and related insects.

Physical Characteristics

Wingspan 4-15 mm; short and bipectinate antennae in both sexes. Larvae have a slender first instar with a large head that tapers posteriorly, contrasting with later instars which have a very small head that can be retracted into the prothorax.

Identification Tips

Look for the short bipectinate antennae and the distinctive larval morphology, especially the retracted head in later instars.

Habitat

Planthopper habitat, where female moths scatter their eggs.

Distribution

Mostly found in the Indian subregion and Australia; at least one species (Fulgoraecia exigua) present in the eastern United States.

Diet

Larvae are parasitoids that suck the blood of their hosts, which are mainly fulgoroid planthoppers, leafhoppers, and cicadas.

Life Cycle

Larvae attach to the host for 4-6 weeks, maturing while feeding on the host's bodily fluids. After maturity, they release the host and spin a cocoon on a nearby branch.

Reproduction

Females scatter several thousand eggs into planthopper habitats.

Ecosystem Role

Ectoparasites of fulgoroid planthoppers and other similar insects, playing a role in controlling their populations.

Collecting Methods

• Light traps
• Visual inspection of planthopper habitats

Preservation Methods

• Killing jars
• Ethanol preservation
• Pinned specimens

Similar Taxa

• Cyclotornidae

Misconceptions

Misunderstood as harmful because they parasitize other insect species, but they play an essential role in controlling pest populations.

Tags

• Epipyropidae
• planthopper parasites
• Lepidoptera
• ectoparasite