Sesiidae
Pronunciation: [Cess·SEE·i·dae]
Common Name: Clearwing Moths
Description: Members of this family are diurnally active moths that often resemble wasps. The front wings are narrow and almost parallel-sided. Most species have narrow bands of yellow, gold, or orange across their abdominal segments. Larvae are mostly borers in the stems or roots of woody plants. Many of them are regarded as agricultural pests.
Spot ID Key Characters:
- Wings, especially hind wings, are transparent (lack pigmented scales)
- Transverse bands of yellow, gold, or orange across abdomen
- Long, narrow forewings
- Diurnally active — wasp mimics
Return To:
Order: Lepidoptera
Picture Gallery:
