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

See text

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

The moth occurs in North America and the New World tropics.

Life cycle and behavior

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 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 7 pairs of prolegs, while other Lepidopterae have 5 or fewer pairs. They feed on a wide variety of deciduous trees and shrubs.[1]

Genera

References

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

Sources

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