The lepidopterans (Lepidoptera), also known as moths and butterflies, represent the most species-rich order of insects. So far, 180, 000 species, in 127 families, have been documented, and about 700 new species are discovered every year. Apart from in the Antarctic, moths and butterflies are found worldwide. In Germany, for example, there are about 3700 species.
Lepidoptera
The body is constructed like that of other insects. The head is equipped with compound eyes, antennae and a proboscis. It is followed by the chest (thorax) with the wings, which characterise the shape of lepidopterans. Finally there is the abdomen. Lepidopterans reach body lengths of 1.5 - 100 mm. The largest lepidopteran species is native to South America and reaches a wingspan of 300 mm, while the smallest lepidopteran wingspans are 1.5 - 2 mm.
Large White - Pieris brassicae
The antennae are an identifying characteristic for assignment to a particular family and they can be filiform, serrated or feathered. Their mouthparts are highly specialized. The length of the proboscis varies dramatically and may be up to 280 mm in subtropical species, and completely regressed in others. The lepidopterans are capable of registering sound.
Butterfly - Old World Swallowtail - Papilio machaon
For the purpose of identification, lepidopterans wings are particularly important. Their colour, shape, size and structure.
Moth-butterfly - Cotton Bollworm
Lepidopterans begin life as caterpillars. They hatch from eggs and feed on plants before they pupate. After their metamorphosis, they hatch from their pupae as an adult butterfly (imago) to live on and store new eggs. Lepidopterans and caterpillars are able to camouflage themselves using colour and texture and even practice mimicry.
Lepidopterans usually only ingest liquid food (nectar, water). A few species live off animal excrement, urine, sweat, blood or even tears. Caterpillars often eat their own egg shells after hatching, and then feed on leaves, pine needles, flowers, seeds or fruits. Some caterpillars live as social parasites with ants.
For humans, the larvae of the Bombycidae and the caterpillars of the silkmoth (silkworms) are of importance. These caterpillars are considered pests especially in gardens and monoculture farming, because an infestation leads to significant crop losses. Lepidopterans which suck blood or tears are considered to be disease vectors.
Moths and Butterflies are of great importance as bio-indicators and plant pollinators. Caterpillars, butterflies and moths have a large number of enemies. Many lepidopteran species are endangered, although this is mainly due to the increased use of pesticides in agriculture.
