Tropical Burnet Moths

Lacturidae

Classification

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

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Lacturidae: /lækˈtjʊrəˌdiː/

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

Summary

Lacturidae, commonly known as Tropical Burnet Moths, are a family of brightly coloured moths in the superfamily Zygaenoidea. They were formerly placed in several other families before being recognized as their own family in 1995, with several species in North America, particularly Lactura pupula associated with Saffron Plum larvae.

Physical Characteristics

Brightly coloured tropical moths. Wingspan of Lactura pupula is 17-25 mm.

Identification Tips

Look for brightly colored wings and a wingspan of 17-25 mm in Lactura pupula.

Habitat

Lacturidae are found in tropical and subtropical environments, specifically reported in regions such as Florida and Texas.

Distribution

Primarily distributed in North America, known occurrences in Illinois, Kentucky, Florida, and Texas.

Diet

Larvae of Lactura pupula have been reported feeding on Saffron Plum (Sideroxylon celastrinum).

Life Cycle

Information on the complete life cycle is not provided.

Reproduction

Information on reproductive habits is not provided.

Predators

Information on natural predators is not provided.

Conservation Status

No specific conservation status has been indicated.

Ecosystem Role

Potentially plays a role in pollination and as a food source for other animals.

Economic Impact

No significant economic impact is mentioned.

Cultural Significance

No cultural significance is provided.

Health Concerns

No health concerns are indicated.

Evolution

Originally placed in the families Plutellidae, Yponomeutidae, and Hyponomeutidae before being established as a new family Lacturidae in 1995 by Heppner.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

None provided.