Genus Heliozela

Herrich-Schäffer, 1853

Etymology

Heliozela: Believed to be the combination of the Greek words helios meaning “sun” and zelos meaning “rival of or jealous of.”

Pronunciation

HEE-lee-oh-ZELL-uh

Overview

Heliozela is a genus of moths in the family Heliozelidae. These small, primitive monotrysian moths are day-flying as adults and feed as larva inside leaves. Sometimes called “shield-bearer moths,” there are over 30 described species worldwide, of which only two of have been found North America currently. Heliozela aesella has been sporatically reported widely reported in the United States, while Heliozela gracilis has been only found in Texas.

Photo Credit

Photo courtesy of Brian Lowry.