Lepidopterism
Guides
Hemileucinae
Buck and Io Moths
Hemileucinae is a subfamily of Saturniidae containing approximately 630 species endemic to North and South America. The subfamily is characterized by larvae bearing venomous urticating spines or setae, with some species capable of causing severe medical reactions in humans. Notable genera include Lonomia, whose caterpillars can cause life-threatening envenomation, and Automeris, known for their striking eyespot patterns. Adults are typically medium to large moths with reduced or non-functional mouthparts.
Hylesia
Hylesia is a genus of moths in the family Saturniidae, subfamily Hemileucinae, erected by Jacob Hübner in 1820. Species in this genus are distributed across South and Central America, with well-documented populations in Brazil, Venezuela, French Guiana, Colombia, Argentina, and Paraguay. The genus is notable for causing lepidopterism—a medical condition involving skin and respiratory reactions from contact with urticating setae (bristles) on adult females. Several species, particularly H. metabus and H. nigricans, are significant public health concerns due to seasonal outbreaks of dermatitis.