Moths

Moths, a sub-order of Lepidopterous insects, which in twilight and darkness take the place of the light-loving butterflies. Technically known as Heterocera, they are distinguished from the butterflies or Rhopalocera by the antennæ, which are variable in form instead of being constantly club-tipped, and by the fact that the wings are usually expanded, and not elevated, when the insect is at rest. Like the parallel series of butterflies, the moths differ greatly from one another in size and colour, habit and diet. The giant owl-moth of Brazil (Thysania agrippina) measures nearly a foot across from tip to tip of expanded wings, while the smallest are hardly visible to unaided eyes. They are represented in most parts of the world, and are usually very prolific. The larvæ or caterpillars feed mostly on living plants, and in this connection are very familiar; others of these ravaging forms ruin clothes, furs, and the like. Most of the latter belong to the family Tineidæ, especially to the genus Tinea. They are the 'moths' par excellence, against whose ravages housewives carefully guard. Clothes should be kept perfectly dry, and the wardrobe, chest, &c. containing them should have no cracks or crevices. Pieces of camphor, sprinkled pepper, and strongly odoriferous 'moth-powder' of some sort will help to keep the adult moths away; but when a host of larvæ have possessed the garment it may be immersed in boiling water, carbolic acid, &c., or burned as hopelessly spoilt. Almost the only directly useful form is the Silk-moth (q.v.). There are separate articles on the Hawk Moth, Death's-head Moth, Gooseberry Caterpillar, &c.; see also BUTTERFLY, CATERPILLAR, INSECTS.