American Silkworm Moths

American silkworm moths, family Apatelodidae, are exclusively New World, and total 252 species, mostly Neotropical (247 sp.). Three subfamilies are known: Apatelodinae, Epiinae, and Phiditiinae.

Some researchers consider the family part of Bombycidae. The family is in the superfamily Bombycoidea (series Bombyciformes), in the section Cossina, subsection Bombycina, of the division Ditrysia. Adults (Fig. 43) small to medium size (20–74 mm wingspan), with head scaling roughened; haustellum absent (rarely vestigial); labial palpi small; maxillary palpi absent; antennae bipectinate; body robust. Wings broadly triangular; hindwings rounded. Maculation varied but mostly shades of brown or gray, rarely more colorful, with various markings. Adults are nocturnal. Larvae are leaf feeders. Host plants include various records in Aquifoliaceae, Betulaceae, Bignoniaceae, Lauraceae, Oleaceae, Rosaceae, among others.

Figure 43 Example of American silkworm moths (Apatelodidae), Apatelodes palma Druce, from Ecuador.