Moths
Moths
Moths (mɔːθs) are a group of insects related to butterflies and belonging to the order Lepidoptera. Most lepidopterans are moths, and there are approximately 160,000 species of moths, many of which are yet to be described.
Etymology
The word "moth" comes from the Old English moððe which is common to Germanic languages (compare Old Norse motti, Dutch mot, and German Motte all meaning "moth").
Characteristics
Moths are typically nocturnal and are distinguished from butterflies by a couple of physical traits. Moths have a frenulum, which is a wing-coupling device. Butterflies do not have this. Moths also have a larger, often feathery antenna, while butterflies have a thin antenna with a club at the end.
Life Cycle
The life cycle of a moth consists of four stages: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa, and adult (imago). The larvae or caterpillars are often much more destructive than the adults, as many species feed on fabric, such as wool and silk, and also on fur, feathers, cork, and even detritus.
Related Terms
- Lepidoptera: The order of insects that includes moths and butterflies.
- Caterpillar: The larval stage of a moth or butterfly.
- Pupa: The life stage occurring between the larva and adult stages.
- Imago: The final and fully developed adult stage of an insect, typically winged.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Moths
- Wikipedia's article - Moths
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