Cup-moths

Guides

• Limacodidae

  slug caterpillar moths, slug moths, cup moths

  Limacodidae, commonly called slug caterpillar moths or cup moths, is a family of approximately 1800 described species of moths distributed worldwide with greatest diversity in tropical regions. The family derives its common name from the distinctive larval form: caterpillars are dorsoventrally flattened and move using ventral suckers rather than prolegs, resembling slugs in appearance and locomotion. Many larvae possess urticating spines or hairs capable of delivering painful stings. The family is also called "cup moths" for the distinctive circular, calcium-hardened cocoons constructed by larvae.

  slug-caterpillar-mothscup-mothsurticating-spinesstinging-caterpillarsaposematic-colorationleaf-skeletonizersdefoliatorscalcium-oxalate-cocoonsbee-mimicrytropical-moths