Flannel Moths
Megalopygidae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Lepidoptera
- Superfamily: Zygaenoidea
- Family: Megalopygidae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Megalopygidae: /ˌmɛɡəloʊˈpɪdʒɨˌdiː/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Megalopygidae, known as flannel moths or crinkled flannel moths, are a family of insects characterized by their hairy bodies and venomous caterpillars, which possess unique features such as 7 pairs of prolegs. They inhabit North America and the tropical regions of the New World, feeding on a range of deciduous plants.
Physical Characteristics
Adult flannel moths are stout-bodied and very hairy. Females have thin antennae while males' are feather-like. Larvae, known as puss caterpillars, have long hairs and resemble cotton balls.
Identification Tips
Caterpillars in this family have 7 pairs of prolegs, which is 2 more than in any other lepidopteran family.
Habitat
These moths occur in a variety of deciduous trees and shrubs in North America and the New World tropics.
Distribution
North America and the New World tropics (11 species in North America).
Diet
Larvae feed on a wide variety of deciduous trees and shrubs.
Life Cycle
Life cycle includes egg, larva (puss caterpillar), pupa, and adult moth stages. Adult males have feather-like antennae while females have thin antennae.
Predators
Eaten by green lacewing insects and Anolis lizards.
Health Concerns
Caterpillars possess venomous spines that can cause a painful sting and inflammation lasting for several days. In severe cases, stings may cause headache, nausea, and shock-like symptoms.
Misconceptions
Caterpillars in this family are often mistaken for harmless caterpillars due to their cotton ball appearance, but they can cause painful stings.
Tags
- Megalopygidae
- Flannel Moths
- Lepidoptera
- Caterpillars
- Venomous
- North America