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Flannel moth

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Flannel moth
Megalopyge opercularis
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Lepidoptera
Superfamily: Zygaenoidea
Family: Megalopygidae
Herrich-Schäffer, 1855
Genera

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The flannel moths or crinkled flannel moths (scientific name Megalopygidae) are a family of insects. They occur in North America (11 species) and the New World tropics.

A Megalopyge opercularis caterpillar on Kent Island, Maryland: a highly toxic species

Distribution and habitat

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These moths occur in North America and the New World tropics.[citation needed]

Life cycle and behavior

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Adult flannel moths are stout-bodied, and very hairy. Females have thin antennae while males' are feather-like. Larvae are called puss caterpillars and, with their long hairs, resemble cotton balls. They are eaten by green lacewing insects and the Anolis lizards. They have venomous spines that can cause a painful sting and inflammation lasting for several days. In some cases, the sting may cause headache, nausea, and shock-like symptoms. Perhaps the most notorious for stinging is the caterpillar of Megalopyge opercularis. Caterpillars have seven pairs of prolegs, while other Lepidopterae have five or fewer pairs. They feed on a wide variety of deciduous trees and shrubs.[1]

Genera

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References

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  1. ^ "Missouri Department of Conservation: Flannel moths". Retrieved 22 September 2022.

Sources

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