Family Apatelodidae — American Silkworm Moths

Neumoegen & Dyar, 1894

Etymology

Apatelodidae: Likely named after Apatela, an archaic genus of dagger moths, named after Apate, the Greek goddess of trickery; and the Greek od, meaning “like.” This is probably in reference to the similarities between the caterpillars of to those of the dagger moths.

The suffix idae is standard taxonomic nomenclature to indicate that word pertains to a zoological family.

Pronunciation

Uh-PAT-eh-LO-did-ee

Overview

The family Apatelodidae is one of nine families of moths that are currently included within the superfamily Bombycoidea. Formerly considered a part of the old-world family of Bombycidae, with only five species from two genera, family Apatelodidae is the least represented member of the superfamily Bombycoidea in North America.

Indiana's Apatelodidae caterpillars are specialized feeders. None of the adult moths in this family have digestive systems, and their purpose as adults is strictly reproductive.

Documented Occurrences

This map shows the verified sightings of the family Apatelodidae Indiana. All sightings were confirmed through photographic documentation by individuals that contributed to the Great American IN Nature Lepidoptera Project (GAIN LP).

Photo Credits

Image courtesy of Rick Malad.