Family Cossidae — Carpenter and Leopard Moths

Leach, 1815

Etymology

Cossidae: Cossi or cossus was the Latin word for “worm,” or “grub” found in the bark of trees.

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

Pronunciation

Co-SY-dee

Overview

The family Cossidae is one of seven families of moths that are currently included within the superfamily Cossoidea. The family is represented throughout the world and contains over 100 genera and 700 known species. There are three genera found in the United States consisting of about 50 species, most of which are found in the western portion of the continent. The caterpillars of this species bore into trees where they feed on their living tissue.

Photo Credits

Image courtesy of Anthony Lara.