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ECOLOGY ▪ EDUCATION ▪ ADVOCACY

Subfamilies of Cosmopterigidae in Indiana
Antequerinae
(1 Indiana species)
Chrysopeleiinae
(29 Indiana species)
Cosmopteriginae
(23 Indiana species)

Family Cosmopterigidae — Cosmet Moths

Heinemann & Wocke, 1876

Gelechioidea Superfamily Order Lepidoptera Insecta Class Hexapoda Subphylum Phylum Arthropoda Kingdom Animalia
Gelechioidea Superfamily Order Lepidoptera Insecta Class Hexapoda Subphylum Phylum Arthropoda Kingdom Animalia

Etymology

Cosmopterigidae: Combines the Greek kosmos, meaning “order,” often used to pertain to beauty, and pter, meaning “wing.”

The suffix idae is standard taxonomic nomenclature to indicate that word pertains to a zoological family.

Pronunciation

kahz-moh-tair-uh-gye-dee

Overview

Collectively known as “cosmet moths,” their larvae feed internally on flowers, leaves, or seeds of their respective host plants.

Distribution of Family Cosmopterigidae
Taxonomic Level Worldwide North America Midwestern USA Indiana    
Subfamilies 4 3 3 3
Genera ~147 ~27 ~17 ~15
Species ~1515 ~230 ~60 ~53

Documented Occurrences

This map shows the confirmed sightings of the family Cosmopterigidae Indiana. All sightings were confirmed through photographic documentation by individuals who contributed to the Great American IN Nature Lepidoptera Project (GAIN LP).

species present icon GAIN LP
documented
in county.

Photo Credits

Antequerinae photo courtesy of Chris Joll, Perimede photo courtesy of Brian Lowry, and Cosmopterigidae photo courtesy of Dan McCord.