Jumping-spider-mimicry
Guides
Brenthia
Peacock Moths
Brenthia is a genus of small moths in the family Choreutidae, commonly known as peacock moths. The genus is notable for its caterpillars' remarkable defense strategy: they construct escape holes in leaves and use silken pillars to drop to safety when threatened. Some species exhibit striking wing patterns that mimic jumping spiders, a form of predator mimicry. Brenthia species are associated with specific host plants, with larvae feeding on various plant families including Boraginaceae and Malvaceae.
Brenthia pavonacella
peacock brenthia moth
A small metalmark moth in the family Choreutidae, measuring approximately 9 mm in wingspan. The species exhibits at least two generations annually in Illinois, with larval activity documented from early July to early September. Known for its distinctive wing patterns that have been proposed to function in predator mimicry, deterring jumping spider attacks.
Choreutoidea
metalmark moths
Choreutoidea is a superfamily of Lepidoptera containing a single family, Choreutidae (metalmark moths). The group was elevated to superfamily status by Minet in 1986 based on morphological evidence, resolving long-standing taxonomic uncertainty. Members are small moths known for distinctive wing patterns that often resemble metal markings, and some species exhibit remarkable predator mimicry of jumping spiders.
Epacmus
Epacmus is a genus of bee flies (family Bombyliidae) characterized by a distinctive case of predator mimicry. Adults possess four prominent, black, polished, hemispherical bumps on the rear of the thorax that strikingly resemble the anterior median eyes of jumping spiders (Salticidae). When viewed from behind, these structures create the illusion of a small salticid spider, potentially deterring predation. The genus is small-bodied, measuring approximately 7–10 mm in length, with a tapered, fuzzy appearance and delicate wings. Taxonomic validity remains debated, with some authorities considering Epacmus a synonym of Aphoebantus.