Family Heliozelidae — Shield Bearer Moths

Heinemann & Wocke, 1876

Etymology

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

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

Pronunciation

HEE-lee-oh-ZELL-id-ee

Overview

The family Heliozelidae is one of nine families of moths that are currently included within the superfamily Adeloidea. These small, primitive monotrysian moths are day-flying as adults and feed as larva inside leaves. Sometimes called “shield-bearer moths,” there are currently 10 genera found worldwide, of which only three have been found North America currently. The Heliozelidae family does not currently contain subfamilies.

Photo Credits

Photo courtesy of Brian Lowry.