Drepanoidea

Families of Drepanoidea in Indiana

Drepana arcuata — *Drepanidae*
(1 Indiana Family)

Superfamily Drepanoidea — Hooktip Moths and Allies

Boisduval, 1828

Etymology

Drepan: Derived from the Greek word drepanon meaning “sickle.”

The suffix oidea is standard taxonomic nomenclature to indicate that word pertains to a zoological superfamily.

Pronunciation

dreh-pahn-oi-dee-uh

Overview

The superfamily Drepanoidea is one of approximately 46 such superfamilies within the insect order of Lepidoptera (butterflies, moths, and skippers). The vast majority of Drepanoidea are found in eastern Asia.

Taxonomic Level	Worldwide	North America	Midwestern USA	Indiana
Distribution of Superfamily Drepanoidea
Families	2	1	1	1
Subfamilies	3	2	2	2
Genera	~114	9-10	7-8	7
Species	~766	24	9	7-8

Superfamily Drepanoidea contains two families: Drepanidae, (hooktip and false owlet moths), and Epicopeiidae (Oriental swallowtail moths).
Family Epicopeiiae is exclusive to eastern Asia and contains moths that are mimics of swallowtail butterflies.

Documented Occurrences

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

GAIN LP
documented
in county.

Photo Credits

Drepanidae courtesy of Chris Joll.