Moth

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Moths are a group of insects related to butterflies and belonging to the order Lepidoptera. Most lepidopterans are moths, and there are thought to be approximately 160,000 species of moth, many of which have yet to be described. Most species of moth are nocturnal, but there are also crepuscular and diurnal species.

Description[edit | edit source]

Moths come in a wide variety of sizes, with a wingspan ranging from 2 mm to 30 cm. Some species of moths are known for their polymorphism, with significant variability in the size, color, and shape of the wings between individuals.

Life cycle[edit | edit source]

Like all insects, moths undergo a four-stage life cycle: egg, larva, pupa, and adult (imago). The larvae, or caterpillars, are often much more noticeable than the adult moths, which are typically active only at night.

Behavior[edit | edit source]

Moths exhibit a wide range of behaviors, from nocturnal activity to migration. Some species are well known for their extraordinary migratory behaviors, while others are famous for their ability to produce silk.

Relationship with humans[edit | edit source]

Moths have been interacting with humans for thousands of years, and this interaction has a wide range of impacts, from the economic damage caused by moth pests to the cultural significance of moths in art and literature.

See also[edit | edit source]

Moth Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD