Prominent Moths

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda

Subphylum: Hexapoda

Order: Lepidoptera

Family: Notodontidae

There are around 3,500 species of medium-sized moths in this family. Most of the moths in this family are gray, olive green, tan, or brown. Some species have black spots or streaks.

Prominent moths are nocturnal and are found in all parts of the world, but the largest number of species are found in tropical areas in the New World.

Most species have thick, furry bodies and long, narrow forewings. Most of the moths in this family fold their wings in a tent-shape when they are at rest. Many species have tufts of hair on their forewings that poke up when the moth's wings are folded. Many of the caterpillars in this family raise both ends of their body when they are disturbed. Larvae in this family pupate underground.