Canadian Journal of Arthropod Identification No.

17 (July 2011) Dombroskie

A Matrix Key to Families, Subfamilies,

and Tribes of Lepidoptera of Canada
Jason J. Dombroskie
Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta. T6G 2E9,Canada.
[email protected].

Abstract. Despite being ecologically, economically, and scientifically important as well as a

relatively well known group of insects, the order Lepidoptera can be difficult for non-experts
to identify reliably. The matrix-based key presented here provides an easy and reliable way to
identify the more difficult groups of adult Lepidoptera using a standard dissecting microscope.
The key allows identification to the level of subfamily or tribe for most Canadian Lepidoptera,
includes 222 taxa, and uses 73 characters with 266 character states. Taxon pages covering the
diversity, diagnosis, and taxonomic references of each taxon accompany the identification key.

Introduction such taxonomists are already overworked and experts are

Lepidoptera, consisting of moths and butterflies, is often lacking for key taxa.
one of the most diverse insect orders, with over 4700 This matrix-based key is an attempt to give the novice
species known in Canada, and their actual number probably a place to start for lepidopteran identifications. It uses
over 6000 (Danks 1988). Although the majority are characters that are non-destructive to specimens and that
phytophagous as larvae, a few species feed on fungi, can be observed under a dissecting microscope. The key
lichens, detritus, animal products, or other insects. Because works well for most microlepidoptera, while for many
of their abundance and generally phytophagous habits, macrolepidoptera it may only narrow identifications down
Lepidoptera can have very important ecological roles and to several taxon groups. The key covers all Lepidoptera
include many important agricultural and forestry pests. In of Canada, and includes 222 taxon groups and is based on
addition, their showiness and variable life histories have 73 characters with 266 character states.
resulted in the more charismatic species being used in
biodiversity and ecological studies. Methods
Obtaining accurate identifications is a vital step in A total of 1656 specimens of 1388 species in 1151
any study. Most butterflies and many macrolepidoptera genera were examined, covering roughly 85% of the
are readily identified by ‘picture-booking’ using various Lepidoptera genera in Canada (Appendix 5-1). I attempted
internet resources (e.g. Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004a; to cover the range of variation by examining a minimum
2004b; 2004c; 2004d; Patterson 2010; Gilligan 2010), of five specimens for each taxon group. Specimens
field guides (e.g. Powell & Opler 2009; Handfield 1999; were obtained from the University of Alberta Strickland
Covell 1984; Brock & Kaufman 2006; Layberry et al. Museum, the Canadian National Collection, the Northern
1998), or visually skimming insect collections; however, Forestry Centre, and the personal collections of Greg Pohl
this method is not practical for some macrolepidoptera and and of the author. All specimens were examined under a
most microlepidoptera. Field guides are most useful for dissecting microscope at no more than 50X magnification,
butterflies, but are less comprehensive for moths due to their and depending upon the size of the feature being measured,
much larger diversity. Even with these resources, picture- either an ocular micrometer, digital callipers, or a ruler
booking can be error prone, especially for beginners, and was used. In addition to examining specimens in hand,
offers no obvious starting point. Alternatively, while images of every species from Troubridge & Lafontaine
traditional dichotomous keys can be helpful in giving a (2004a; 2004b; 2004c; 2004d) and Layberry et al. (1998)
place to start, it is difficult to see many characters due to the were examined and the extent of variation in wing pattern
covering of scales. The reliable identification of specimens and colour was recorded for each taxon group. Data were
often requires careful examination of genitalia or wing recorded in a spreadsheet, and a summary for each taxon
venation. There are a few user-friendly dichotomous keys group was entered into XID (Old 2011).
(eg. Scudder & Cannings 2007; Fauske 2007); however, The taxonomy employed here generally follows
they do not have a comprehensive coverage of lepidopteran Kristensen (1999), except that Scoble (1999) and Ferguson
subfamilies and tribes. Consequently, relying on expert (2008) were used for the Geometridae and Lafontaine
opinion has remained the best means for identifying and Schmidt (2010) for the Noctuoidea. Butterfly names
microlepidoptera and difficult macrolepidoptera. However, follow Pelham (2008). Taxon diagnoses are based on all

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Canadian Journal of Arthropod Identification No. 17 (July 2011) Dombroskie

examined specimens, and references represent a selection coxa which rests next to the thorax, a tiny trochanter, an
of what were considered to be the most comprehensive elongate and usually thick femur, a long slender tibia, and
and useful sources. For a more thorough list of taxonomic the tarsus (usually composed of five tarsomeres) ending in
references, refer to Pohl (2006). a pair of claws. The tibiae on the prothorax usually have
an elongate scaled projection, termed an epiphysis. The
General anatomy and characters tibiae located on the meso- and metathoracic segments
For a thorough coverage of lepidopteran anatomy, often have movable spurs, with the mid-legs typically
Scoble (1992) or Kristensen (2003) should be consulted. having two, and the hind-legs typically having four.
The terminology used in this key follows Covell (1984). The abdomen is usually rather soft and consists of
The head of Lepidoptera is typically dominated by a eight segments and terminal genitalia. The dorsal plates
pair of large compound eyes composed of many ommatidia. of the abdomen are termed tergites and the ventral plates
Immediately dorsal to the compound eyes may be ocelli, sternites. Females will often have hairy ovipositor lobes
although these are frequently lost. Ocelli are typically small, at the end of the abdomen, though these may be modified
but can be noticeably larger in a few microlepidopteran into a sclerotized piercing structure in some taxa. Males
families. The dorsal region between the compound eyes is have a pair of claspers associated with the genitalia, and
the vertex, which is bordered anteroventrally by the frons. these may be visible without dissection, especially if the
Scale vestiture can differ between these two regions and scales are brushed off at the tip of the abdomen.
can be useful for identification. Chaetosemata are patches
of regularly arranged, slender scales located dorsal to the How to use this key
compound eyes and posterior to the ocelli, and are found The key uses XID software developed by Richard
in many different families. Each antenna is composed of a Old that runs on a Windows platform. This software was
basal and usually broad scape that is followed by the second chosen over other software titles due to its ease of use,
segment termed the pedicel, and a followed by a slender, excellent technical support, and its lack of glitches related
multi-segmented flagellum. It is often scaled dorsally, and to Java platform incompatibility that some other programs
these scales may be arranged in rows on the flagellum, have. Run XIDRO.exe and open the file “Key to the
the number of which may be important in identification. Lepidoptera of Canada.xid”. Upon launching the program
Most Lepidoptera have well-developed, three segmented you will see a hierarchical list of characters (Appendix
labial palps. Maxillary palps are five segmented, but are 5-2) in the upper left frame and these can be expanded
usually reduced in size and number of segments in all but by clicking on the “+” to reveal characters nested within.
some of the most basal lineages. The most basal lineages Once you reach a set of attributes, you will see a dotted
may also have functional mandibles, although these are box where you can enter your character state and a number
difficult to see. Most Lepidoptera have a coiled proboscis that states how many taxon groups will remain if you
(sometimes termed a haustellum), although this can be mark that character state. If you click on the characters
secondarily reduced or lost entirely. In some lineages the or attributes, a photo and a description may appear in the
proboscis is covered by overlapping scales, at least basally, frame on the right. If a character is ambiguous, you can
and this is one of the most useful characters in identifying mark more than one box with “or”.
microlepidoptera. In the frame on the bottom left is a list of the taxon
The thorax is divided into a prothorax, mesothorax, and groups. The number at the top will show how many of
metathorax, of which each has a pair of legs and the last two the taxa have not been eliminated out of the 222 groups.
have a pair of wings each. When the wings are spread open, Once a taxon group has been eliminated, the checkmark
triangular, scaled projections, termed tegulae jut slightly in front of it will change to an “X”, the font will turn red,
outwards from the forewing base. The scale covering of and it will be moved down the list. Clicking on any of the
the wings usually conceals their transparency and venation. taxon groups will show a picture and a taxon description
The most basal lineages have homoneurous wings, which followed by a selection of taxonomic references.
have a forewing and hindwing that are similarly veined Several of the buttons in the top menu bar are useful
and shaped and may be coupled together by a jugal lobe when identifying a specimen. Hover over the button with
on the posterior edge of the forewing. However, the vast the mouse cursor to see the name of each button. The most
majority of the Lepidoptera have heteroneurous wings useful button to start with and to use after every character
in which shape and venation differ between forewings state selection, is the “analyze” button, which will list the
and hindwings. In many of these families, the wings are most useful characters to initially look at.
coupled together by a frenulum, which is a curved bristle
or series of bristles originating on the leading edge of the Clicking on the “item/species list” button will show
base of the hindwing that latches into a retinaculum on pictures and descriptions for the remaining taxa for easy
the underside of the forewing. Each leg is composed of a comparison.

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Canadian Journal of Arthropod Identification No. 17 (July 2011) Dombroskie

References for Introduction

The “gallery” button will show thumbnail pictures
of the remaining taxa for quick comparison. You can adjust Brock J. P., and K. Kaufman. 2006. Kaufman Field
the number of images shown by selecting “Gallery” in the Guide to Butterflies of North America. Houghton Mifflin
“Options” menu. Harcourt, Boston.

Marking “marked & eliminated” button will give Covell C. V. 1984. A Field Guide to the Moths of Eastern
a list of characters marked. North America. Houghton Mifflin, Boston.

Danks H. V. 1988. Insects of Canada. Biological Survey

Clicking on the “analyze” button will list the most
of Canada Document series no. 1.
useful characters to narrow down the search, and is the
most useful button to quickly key out a specimen.
Fauske G. M. 2007. A key to the superfamilies of the
Lepidoptera with special reference to North and South
The “clear all marks” button is a quick way to restart Dakota. http://www.ndsu.edu/pubweb/~gefauske/ndmoths/
the key. Family%20key/keysSPF1.htm Accessed: 26 iv 2011.
Ferguson D. C. 2008. The Moths of America North of
The “show/hide references” button will reveal a Mexico, Fascicle 17.2, Geometroidea, Geometridae,
full list of references used in the taxon descriptions. Ennominae (part: Abraxini, Cassymini, Macariini). The
Wedge Entomological Research Foundation, Washington.
When selecting specimens for keying, try to choose
ones with the least amount of damage. Using a specimen Gilligan T. M. 2010. Tortricid.net. http://www.tortricidae.
where many of scales are rubbed off may underrepresent com/ Accessed: 30 v 2010.
the pattern and the increase the chance of an incorrect
identification. For measurements of some of the smaller Handfield L. 1999. Le Guide des Papillons du Québec.
specimens, care must be taken to get a fairly accurate Version populaire. Broquet, Boucherville, QC.
measurement, especially when dealing with ratios. For
small measurements, an ocular micrometer on a stereo Kristensen N. P. 1999. Handbook of Zoology, Vol. IV
microscope should be used when available. This key Arthropoda: Insecta Part 35, Lepidoptera, Moths and
was built using species found within Canada and trying to Butterflies Vol. 1: Evolution, Systematics, Biogeography.
use it to identify specimens collected elsewhere may also Walter de Gruyter, Berlin.
result in incorrect identifications. If errors are discovered
in the key, the author would greatly appreciate the details Kristensen N. P. 2003. Handbook of Zoology, Vol.
to help improve future updates. A link will be provided IV. Arthropoda: Insecta. Part 36, Lepidoptera, Moths
to unreviewed updates of this key. and Butterflies, Vol. 2: Morphology, Physiology, and
Development. Walter de Gruyter, Berlin.
Acknowledgements
Greg Pohl, Thomas Simonsen, Gary Anweiler, and Lafontaine J. D., and B. C. Schmidt. 2010. Annotated
Bryan Brunet gave valuable critiques on the taxon write- check list of the Noctuoidea (Insecta, Lepidoptera) of North
ups for microleps, butterflies, macromoths, and the America north of Mexico. ZooKeys 40:1-239.
introduction respectively. They also gave encouragement
and important input into early development of the key Layberry R. A., P. W. Hall, and J. D. Lafontaine. 1998.
along with Amanda Roe, Felix Sperling, Chris Schmidt The Butterflies of Canada. University of Toronto Press
and the rest of the Sperling Lab. Pam McKee provided Inc., Toronto.
the majority of character images. Many students in
Entomology 380 and 427/527 were instrumental in testing Old, R. 2011. XID Services. http://xidservices.com/
early versions of the key. I am greatly indebted to Richard Accessed: 08 v 2011.
Old for prompt responses to technical queries and much
constructive criticism of the key. Don Lafontaine, Jean- Patterson B. 2010. The Moth Photographers Group. http://
François Landry, and Richard Brown provided thoughtful mothphotographersgroup.msstate.edu/MainMenu.shtml
critiques. Work on the key was supported by SFMN-NCE, Accessed: 30 v 2010.
NSERC-CANPOLIN (contribution #24), and an NSERC
Discovery grant to Felix Sperling. Powell J. A., and P. A. Opler. 2009. Moths of Western
North America. University of California Press, Berkeley,

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Canadian Journal of Arthropod Identification No. 17 (July 2011) Dombroskie

California. can occasionally take on the appearance of ocelli and they

can be obscured by scales. (Fig. 7)
Scoble M. J. 1992. The Lepidoptera: Form, Function and
Diversity. Oxford University Press, New York. Present - Ocelli are present.

Scoble M. J. 1999. Geometrid moths of the world: a Absent - No ocelli are present. When the ocelli are
catalogue (Lepidoptera: Geometridae). Natural History completely concealed by long scales, they count as absent.
Museum, London.
Antennae
Scudder G. G. E., and R. A. Cannings. 2007. Lepidoptera
and associated orders of British Columbia. http://www. Eye cap - A broadening of the antennal base that can
zoology.ubc.ca/bclepetal/ Accessed: 26 iv 2011. partially or fully cover the compound eye. (Fig. 8)

Troubridge J. T., and J. D. Lafontaine. 2004. The Moths Present - A broadening of the antennal base that can
of Canada. Accessed: 30 v 2010. http://www.cbif.gc.ca/ partially or fully cover the compound eye is present. This
spp_pages/misc_moths/phps/mothindex_e.php character is only present in some tiny microlepidoptera.

Characters Absent - A broadening of the antennal base that can

partially or fully cover the compound eye is absent. This
Head character is only present in some tiny microlepidoptera.

Vertex - The vertex is the top part of the head between the Number of scale rows per antennal segment - The
compound eyes. (Fig. 1) antenna often has scales on each segment that may be
arranged in rows. These are often only on the dorsal part
Rough scaled - Scales on the dorsal part of the head are of the antenna. Always check the middle of the antenna
rough or erect. (Fig. 2) since the very base and very tip can be different than the
remainder of the antenna. In cases where the segments
Smooth scaled - Scales on the dorsal part of the head are are not apparent, try looking in lateral or ventral view for
flattened or smooth looking. (Fig. 3) unscaled areas, or look for repeated patterns (eg. scale
colours, distinct distal sensillae).
Frons - The frons is the front part of the head between the
compound eyes. (Fig. 4) 0 - There are no scales on the antenna, or they are present
only at the very base or apex. When in doubt scan the
Rough scaled - Scales on the front part of the head are entire antenna. (Fig. 9)
rough or erect. (Fig. 2)
1 - There is one row of scales per antennal segment. In
Smooth scaled - Scales on the front part of the head are cases where the segments are not apparent, try looking
flattened or smooth looking. (Fig. 3) in lateral or ventral view for unscaled areas, or look
for repeated patterns (eg. scale colours, distinct distal
Compound eye - The compound eyes are the large eyes sensillae). (Fig. 10)
visible and are made of many tiny lenses called ommatidia.
(Fig. 5) 2 - There are two rows of scales per antennal segment. In
cases where the segments are not apparent, try looking
Hairy - Fine hairs are present between the individual facets in lateral or ventral view for unscaled areas, or look
of the compound eye and are noticeably long, at least ten for repeated patterns (eg. scale colours, distinct distal
times the width of an individual ommatidia. (Fig. 6) sensillae). (Fig. 11)

Hairless - Fine hairs are absent between the individual 3+ or not in rows - There are three or more rows of scales
facets of the compound eye or are not noticeably long or per antennal segment or the scales are not in apparent
are not easily visible. (Fig. 5) rows. In cases where the segments are not apparent, try
looking in lateral or ventral view for unscaled areas, or
Ocelli - Ocelli are two very small, single lensed eyes that look for repeated patterns (eg. scale colours, distinct distal
are situated just dorsal to the compound eyes when present. sensillae). (Fig. 12)
When in doubt, check the other side of the head since debris Antennal length - The approximate length of the antennae

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Canadian Journal of Arthropod Identification No. 17 (July 2011) Dombroskie

compared to the FW length. be found in some moths. (Fig. 21)

<1/2 forewing length - The antenna is less than 1/2 the Abrupt club - The very tip of the antenna is thickened or it
length of the forewing measured from the wing base along is thickened just before, and the apex is hooked. When it is
the costa to the apex. If the antenna is roughly 1/2 the also hooked, mark both. The abrupt club is characteristic of
length, mark both <1/2 and >1/2 as `OR`. (Fig. 13) most butterflies, but a few moths have it as well. (Fig. 22)
>1/2 forewing length - The antenna is greater than 1/2 the Labial palps - The labial palps are normally the most
length of the forewing measured from the wing base along prominent palps. In some microleps the maxillary palps
the costa to the apex, but less than the forewing length. If can be long as well, but in these cases the maxillary palps
the antenna is roughly 1/2 the length, mark both <1/2 and are very slender and have more than 3 visible segments
>1/2 as `OR`. (Fig. 14) while the labial palps have only 3 visible segments and
> 1 forewing length - The antenna is greater than the may or may not be slender.
length of the forewing measured from the wing base along
the costa to the apex, but less than twice its length. If the Orientation of labial palps - The orientation of the labial
antenna is roughly the length of the forewing, mark both palps.
>1/2 and >1 as `OR`. (Fig. 15)
> 2 forewing lengths - The antenna is greater than twice Ascending - Ascending palps point upwards, often
the length of the forewing measured from the wing base following the contour of the head, and when really long
along the costa to the apex. Only Adelidae should have this can project backwards as well. (Fig. 23)
character state which normally have iridescent forewings.
If your specimen is dull-looking, check the wing. If it is Porrect - Porrect palps point forwards, though they may
covered in hairs and not scales, you have a caddisfly (Order have an upward inflection near their base. (Fig. 24)
Trichoptera). (Fig. 16)
Antennal sensillae length - These are fine hairs that are Descending - Descending palps curl downwards or less
present ventrally on the antenna. For the purposes of this commonly point downwards, and are normally parallel.
key, all hair-like structures that are visible are considered Sometimes during the preparation of specimens, ascending
sensillae. (Fig. 17) palps can be artificially bent downwards, though these
> half shaft width - Fine hairs are present on the ventral usually appear to be spread apart. (Fig. 25)
surface of the antenna and they are longer than 1/2 the
width of the antennal shaft. These hairs may be sparse Labial palp length - The length of the labial palps relative
(including a single one at the distal end of each antennal to the compound eye.
segment) or dense. They need to be throughout the antenna,
not just at the base or tip. > 2X length of compound eye - The length of the labial
< half shaft width or absent - Fine hairs are absent from palp (measured from the base to tip and following any
the ventral surface of the antenna or they are shorter than contour) is greater than twice the greatest length of the
1/2 the width of the antennal shaft. These hairs may be compound eye. (Fig. 23)
sparse (including a single one at the distal end of each
antennal segment) or dense. They need to be throughout < 2X length of compound eye - The length of the labial
the antenna, not just at the base or tip. palp (measured from the base to tip and following any
Antennal type - The type of antenna the specimen has. contour) is less than twice the greatest length of the
compound eye. (Fig. 5)
Filiform - A simple thread-like antenna or weakly pectinate
with the pectinations less than twice the antennal shaft Labial palp vestiture - The presence or absence of erect
width. (Fig. 18) scales or scale tufts on the labial palps.
Pectinate - The antennal segments have projections
(pectinations) diverging off of them that are longer than Palps tufted - Erect scales are present throughout or in tufts
twice the shaft width. Not all segments need to have on the labial palp giving it a roughened appearance. (Fig. 5)
pectinations, they are often absent from some of the
antennal segments, especially apically. (Fig. 19) Palps smooth - The scales on the labial palp are closely
Elongate club - Roughly the distal quarter or more of the appressed to it. The palp may be expanded, especially
antenna is thicker than the basal part. Most commonly on the second segment, but even here the scales will be
seen in some diurnal moths. (Fig. 20) appressed. (Fig. 26)
Hooked - The antennal tip is hooked. This is often in
combination with an abrupt club, in these cases mark both. Maxillary palps - The maxillary palps tend to be slender
The hooked antenna is most common in skippers, but can and with more than three segments when visible. Only

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Canadian Journal of Arthropod Identification No. 17 (July 2011) Dombroskie

some microleps have maxillary palps longer than half the Reduced - The wings are reduced or absent. Reduced
length of the labial palps (measured from the base to tip wings are not functional and do not extend to the middle
and following any contour). A few macroleps that have part of the abdomen. This is found only in the females of
very short labial palps will fall under this, but the maxillary a few groups. (Fig. 33)
palps in most leps are very short or not visible.
Normal size - Wings are present and normally fully
>1/2 length labial palps - The maxillary palps are greater functional. They extend beyond the middle of the abdomen.
than half the length of the labial palps. (Fig. 27) (Fig. 34)

<1/2 length labial palps - The maxillary palps are less Forewing
than half the length of the labial palps. (Fig. 28)
Raised scales on forewing (Fig. 35)
Proboscis - The proboscis is located on the lower front
part of the head when present and is often coiled. When Present - Tufts of scales are present on the forewing that are
coiled, the proboscis may be hidden between the labial raised above the surface. The tufts are often composed of
palps, but can still be seen from a ventral view with good modified scent scales that look different than the other wing
lighting. It can be absent or reduced. scales. Damaged specimens can have the appearance of
raised scales, but these are usually in a line and composed
Naked - The proboscis is completely shiny and naked, of scales similar to those of the rest of the wing.
lacking appressed scales. Sometimes loose scales can
adhere to the proboscis, but they are always arranged Absent - All scales on the forewing are appressed to the
haphazardly and not overlapping each other. (Fig. 29) surface.

Scaled - The proboscis has appressed scales on it at least Costal fold in male - The basal portion of the costa is
near the base, but they can continue for more than half folded back over itself. This is present in males of certain
the length. (Fig. 30) groups and they usually have modified scales tucked in
underneath the fold. (Fig. 36)
Absent - The proboscis is either absent or not visible.
When coiled, the proboscis can be hidden between the Present - The costal fold is present in males.
labial palps, but can still be seen from a ventral view with
good lighting. When it is very short and not visible at all Absent - The costal fold is absent in males.
due to dense erect scales, it is marked as absent. (Fig. 31)
Forewing notch - There are one or more deep notches in
Thorax the outer margin. (Fig. 37)

Dorsal thoracic scale tuft - A tuft of erect scales is raised Present - A forewing notch or notches are present.
dorsally above the rest of the thoracic scales. This is
typically mid-dorsal, though there may be smaller paired Absent - A forewing notch or notches are absent.
tufts. Tegulae which are triangular tufts of scales that
spread out laterally from the thorax around the base of the Forewing pattern - The pattern refers to those on the
forewing do not count as scale tufts. (Fig. 32) dorsal surface of the wing only.

Present - A dorsal thoracic scale tuft is present. Number of forewing colours

Absent - All scales on the dorsal surface of the thorax are Single colour - The forewing is one solid colour with no
uniform in height. pattern or variation in colour. (Fig. 38)

Wings At least 2 colours - The forewing has at least a faint pattern

or is speckled or graded in other colours. (Fig. 39)
Wings reduced - The wings are reduced or absent.
Reduced wings are not functional and do not extend to Forewing spots
the middle part of the abdomen. This is found only in the
females of a few groups. Forewing reniform spot - The true reniform spot is found
just beyond the middle of the forewing towards the costa,

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Canadian Journal of Arthropod Identification No. 17 (July 2011) Dombroskie

and just inside the postmedial line when present. This is Forewing medial line - The medial line is located roughly
typical of noctuids and other macroleps. When a spot is at the center of the forewing and between the orbicular and
indicated in a similar location in microleps, it is marked reniform spots when present. This line may be incomplete
as present. (Fig. 40) and even a strong indication of this line at only the costa
or inner margin or a series of dots should be marked as
Present - The reniform spot is present. present. It is also marked as present when it forms the edge
of a patch or band. (Fig. 45)
Absent - The reniform spot is absent.
Present - The medial line is present.
Forewing orbicular spot - The true orbicular spot is found
just before the middle of the forewing towards the costa, Absent - The medial line is absent.
and just beyond the antemedial line when present. This is
typical of noctuids and other macroleps. When a spot is Forewing postmedial line - The postmedial line is located
indicated in a similar location in microleps, it is marked roughly two thirds of the way from the forewing base
as present. (Fig. 41) and after the reniform spot when present. This line may
be incomplete and even a strong indication of this line at
Present - The orbicular spot is present. only the costa or inner margin or a series of dots should
be marked as present. It is also marked as present when
Absent - The orbicular spot is absent. it forms the edge of a medial or terminal band. (Fig. 46)

Forewing claviform spot - The true claviform spot is Present - The postmedial line is present.
found just before the middle of the forewing towards the
inner margin, just below the orbicular spot when present. Absent - The postmedial line is absent.
This is typical of noctuids and other macroleps. When a
spot is indicated in a similar location in microleps, it is Forewing subterminal line - The subterminal line is
marked as present. (Fig. 42) located just before the outer margin of the forewing and
after the postmedial line when present. This line may be
Present - The claviform spot is present. incomplete and even a strong indication of this line at
only the costa or inner margin or a series of dots should
Absent - The claviform spot is absent. be marked as present. It is also marked as present when
it forms the edge of a medial or terminal band. (Fig. 47)
Forewing discal spot / dot - The discal spot is usually
small and located close to the center of the medial area Present - The subterminal line is present.
of the forewing. It is rarely present when the reniform,
orbicular, or claviform spots are present. (Fig. 43) Absent - The subterminal line is absent.

Present - A discal spot or dot is present. Forewing dashes or streaks - Obvious dashes or streaks
run through the forewing. They can be single or multiple.
Absent - A discal spot or dot is absent. Sometimes the wing veins will be traced with paler scales,
when these form a broad streak mark them as present,
Forewing lines - These characters refer to the dorsal otherwise mark them as absent. (Fig. 48)
surface of the wing only
Present - Dashes or streaks are present.
Forewing antemedial line - The antemedial line is located
roughly one third of the way from the forewing base and Absent - Dashes or streaks are absent.
before the orbicular spot when present. This line may be
incomplete and even a strong indication of this line at Forewing colour - The colour refers strictly to the upper
only the costa or inner margin or a series of dots should surface of the wing.
be marked as present. It is also marked as present when it
forms the edge of a basal patch or medial band. (Fig. 44) Forewing iridescent / shiny - At least some of the scales
on the forewing appear reflective or change colour when
Present - The antemedial line is present. the viewing angle of the wing is changed. Typically these
are iridescent or extremely shiny. This is slightly subjective
Absent - The antemedial line is absent. since all scales have some shininess to them.

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Present - There are at least some iridescent or metallic surface of the forewing are white. When it grades into
scales, or overall looks very shiny. another colour or if in doubt, mark more than one colour.

Absent - There are no iridescent or metallic scales and Present - At least some white scales are present on the
overall does not look very shiny. forewing.

Forewing transparent - There are at least small patches Absent - There are no white scales on the forewing.
on the forewing that are transparent and lacking scales.
Very translucent wings like those found in Cossidae can Forewing orange - At least some of the scales on the dorsal
be marked either way. Excessive wear of specimens can surface of the forewing are orange. When it grades into
cause extensive denuding of the wing scales, leaving it another colour or if in doubt, mark more than one colour.
transparent. These should not be considered transparent.
Present - At least some orange scales are present on the
Present - There are transparent patches on the wing. forewing.

Absent - The wing is fully scaled. Absent - There are no orange scales on the forewing.

Forewing black - At least some of the scales on the dorsal Forewing red - At least some of the scales on the dorsal
surface of the forewing are black. When it grades into surface of the forewing are red. When it grades into another
another colour or if in doubt, mark more than one colour. colour or if in doubt, mark more than one colour.

Present - At least some black scales are present on the Present - At least some red scales are present on the
forewing. forewing.

Absent - There are no black scales on the forewing. Absent - There are no red scales on the forewing.

Forewing grey - At least some of the scales on the dorsal Forewing purple - At least some of the scales on the dorsal
surface of the forewing are grey. When it grades into surface of the forewing are purple. When it grades into
another colour or if in doubt, mark more than one colour. another colour or if in doubt, mark more than one colour.

Present - At least some grey scales are present on the Present - At least some purple scales are present on the
forewing. forewing.

Absent - There are no grey scales on the forewing. Absent - There are no purple scales on the forewing.

Forewing brown - At least some of the scales on the dorsal Forewing green - At least some of the scales on the dorsal
surface of the forewing are brown. When it grades into surface of the forewing are green. When it grades into
another colour or if in doubt, mark more than one colour. another colour or if in doubt, mark more than one colour.

Present - At least some brown scales are present on the Present - At least some green scales are present on the
forewing. forewing.

Absent - There are no brown scales on the forewing. Absent - There are no green scales on the forewing.

Forewing yellow - At least some of the scales on the dorsal Forewing blue - At least some of the scales on the dorsal
surface of the forewing are yellow. When it grades into surface of the forewing are blue. When it grades into
another colour or if in doubt, mark more than one colour. another colour or if in doubt, mark more than one colour.

Present - At least some yellow scales are present on the Present - At least some blue scales are present on the
forewing. forewing.

Absent - There are no yellow scales on the forewing. Absent - There are no blue scales on the forewing.

Forewing white - At least some of the scales on the dorsal Forewing pink - At least some of the scales on the dorsal

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surface of the forewing are pink. When it grades into Hindwing similar to forewing in pattern - The hindwing
another colour or if in doubt, mark more than one colour. pattern is a continuation of the forewing pattern. This is
most common in leps that rest with their wings open and
Present - At least some pink scales are present on the hindwings exposed.
forewing.
Forewing and hindwing pattern similar - The forewing
Absent - There are no pink scales on the forewing. and hindwing are similar in pattern. (Fig. 52)

Hindwing - All of these characters refer to the dorsal Forewing and hindwing pattern different - The forewing
surface of the wing. and hindwing are not similar in pattern. (Fig. 53)

Hindwing fringe length - The fringe is the elongated Hindwing discal spot / lunule - A spot is often present
scales that border the outer margin of the hindwing. in the middle of the hindwing which can sometimes be
crescent-shaped (lunule). (Fig. 54)
> Hindwing width - The length of the fringe is longer
than the hindwing width (measured perpendicularly from Present - A discal spot or lunule is present.
the inner margin of the hindwing for the greatest distance
to near the anal angle). This is present in small microleps. Absent - A discal spot or lunule is absent.
(Fig. 49)
Hindwing colour
< Hindwing width - The length of the fringe is shorter
than the hindwing width (measured perpendicularly from Hindwing iridescent / shiny - At least some of the scales
the inner margin of the hindwing for the greatest distance on the hindwing appear reflective or change colour when
to near the anal angle). This is the state in larger microleps the viewing angle of the wing is changed. Typically these
and macroleps. (Fig. 50) are iridescent or extremely shiny. This is slightly subjective
since all scales have some shininess to them.
Hindwing tail - The hindwings are projected into tails.
These can be subtle points. (Fig. 51) Present - There are at least some iridescent or metallic
scales, or overall looks very shiny.
Present - Tails are present.
Absent - There are no iridescent or metallic scales and
Absent - Tails are absent. overall does not look very shiny.

Hindwing notch - There are one or more deep notches in Hindwing black - At least some of the scales on the dorsal
the outer margin. (Fig. 37) surface of the hindwing are black. When it grades into
another colour or if in doubt, mark more than one colour.
Present - A hindwing notch or notches are present.
Present - At least some black scales are present on the
Absent - A hindwing notch or notches are absent. hindwing.

Hindwing pattern - All of these characters refer to the Absent - There are no black scales on the hindwing.
dorsal surface of the wing.
Hindwing grey - At least some of the scales on the dorsal
Hindwing boldly patterned - The hindwing has a bold surface of the hindwing are grey. When it grades into
pattern of contrasting colours. This can be as simple as another colour or if in doubt, mark more than one colour.
the outer part of the wing being distinctly darker than the
inner part. Present - At least some grey scales are present on the
hindwing.
Boldly patterned - The hindwing is boldly patterned.
(Fig. 52) Absent - There are no grey scales on the hindwing.

Not boldly patterned - The hindwing is not boldly Hindwing brown - At least some of the scales on the dorsal
patterned. It can grade subtly from one shade to another, surface of the hindwing are brown. When it grades into
but never distinctly so. (Fig. 53) another colour or if in doubt, mark more than one colour.

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Present - At least some brown scales are present on the Present - At least some blue scales are present on the
hindwing. hindwing.

Absent - There are no brown scales on the hindwing. Absent - There are no blue scales on the hindwing.

Hindwing yellow - At least some of the scales on the dorsal Hindwing pink - At least some of the scales on the dorsal
surface of the hindwing are yellow. When it grades into surface of the hindwing are pink. When it grades into
another colour or if in doubt, mark more than one colour. another colour or if in doubt, mark more than one colour.

Present - At least some yellow scales are present on the Present - At least some pink scales are present on the
hindwing. hindwing.

Absent - There are no yellow scales on the hindwing. Absent - There are no pink scales on the hindwing.

Hindwing white - At least some of the scales on the dorsal Legs

surface of the hindwing are white. When it grades into
another colour or if in doubt, mark more than one colour. Hind tibial spur length - The hind tibia usually has two
sets of movable spurs, one set near the apex, and one near
Present - At least some white scales are present on the the middle. Spurs when they are visible usually are situated
hindwing. in closely set pairs that spread outwards in a `V`. The spurs
are often covered in scales and are usually prominent
Absent - There are no white scales on the hindwing. except when the tibiae are excessively hairy. (Fig. 55)

Hindwing orange - At least some of the scales on the > 1/2 length of 1st tarsomere - At least one of the apical
dorsal surface of the hindwing are orange. When it grades pair of tibial spurs is longer than half of the length of the
into another colour or if in doubt, mark more than one first tarsomere.
colour.
< 1/2 length of 1st tarsomere - The apical pair of tibial
Present - At least some orange scales are present on the spurs are both shorter than half of the length of the first
hindwing. tarsomere.
Hind tibial spines – Spiniform setae are present that
Absent - There are no orange scales on the hindwing. protrude from the scaly covering. These spiniform setae
are usually much darker than the surrounding scales so
Hindwing red - At least some of the scales on the dorsal they are apparent; however, in some small microleps they
surface of the hindwing are red. When it grades into another can be concolourous, but they are excessively long. In
colour or if in doubt, mark more than one colour. specimens where the scales of the tibia are excessively
long and dense, these spiniform setae will be very difficult
Present - At least some red scales are present on the to see. In these cases mark the spines as absent. (Fig. 56)
hindwing. Present - Hind tibial spiniform setae are visible.

Absent - There are no red scales on the hindwing. Absent - Hind tibial spiniform setae are not visible.

Hindwing green - At least some of the scales on the dorsal Hind tarsal spines - Darkly pigmented spiniform setae
surface of the hindwing are green. When it grades into are present on the ventral surface of the tarsomeres. These
another colour or if in doubt, mark more than one colour. do not include paired spiniform setae at the apical end of
each tarsomere since these are present in most Lepidoptera.
Present - At least some green scales are present on the Only count spines that are not apical in position.
hindwing.
Present - Spiniform setae are present on the tarsomeres in
Absent - There are no green scales on the hindwing. addition to apical paired spiniform setae. (Fig. 57)

Hindwing blue - At least some of the scales on the dorsal Absent - There are no spiniform setae on the tarsomeres
surface of the hindwing are blue. When it grades into in addition to apical paired spiniform setae. (Fig. 58)
another colour or if in doubt, mark more than one colour.

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Measurements & ratios Abdominal dorsal scale tuft - A tuft of erect scales is
Thorax width - The thorax width is measured as the raised dorsally above the rest of the abdominal scales.
distance between the base of both forewings at the Do not include anal scale tufts at the tip of the abdomen.
costa. Do not include the tegulae (triangular scaled (Fig. 67)
projections extending from the thorax at the wing bases)
in measurements. (Fig. 59) Present - A dorsal abdominal scale tuft is present.

Forewing length - The forewing length is measured from Absent - A dorsal abdominal scale tuft is absent.
the base at the costa in a straight line to the apex. Ignore
this if the wings are reduced or absent. (Fig. 60) Abdominal pattern - The abdomen has a contrasting
pattern on it.
Forewing width - The forewing width is measured in a
straight line from the apex to the anal angle. In smaller Boldly patterned - The abdomen is boldly patterned.
microleps with lanceolate wings, measure the broadest part (Fig. 68)
of the wing, usually around the middle of the forewing.
Ignore this if the wings are reduced or absent. (Fig. 61) Not boldly patterned - The abdomen is not boldly
patterned. (Fig. 69)
Hindwing width - The hindwing width is measured as the
greatest distance measured from the costa perpendicularly Geography
to the anal angle. Ignore this if the wings are reduced or
absent. (Fig. 62) Nunavut - The Lepidoptera fauna is relatively well known
here.
Ratio forewing length : thorax width - Forewing length
(measured from the base at the costa in a straight line to the Northwest Territories - The Lepidoptera fauna is not
apex) divided by thorax width (measured as the distance very well known here so marking this may eliminate taxa
between the base of both forewings at the costa). Ignore that are present.
this if the wings are reduced or absent. (Fig. 63)
Yukon Territory - The Lepidoptera fauna is not very
Ratio forewing length : forewing width - Forewing well known here so marking this may eliminate taxa that
length (measured from the base at the costa in a straight are present.
line to the apex) divided by forewing width (measured in
a straight line from the apex to the anal angle). Ignore this British Columbia - The Lepidoptera fauna is relatively
if the wings are reduced or absent. (Fig. 64) well known here.

Ratio forewing width : hindwing width - Forewing Alberta - The Lepidoptera fauna is relatively well known
width (measured in a straight line from the apex to the here.
anal angle) divided by hindwing width (measured as the
greatest distance measured from the costa perpendicularly Saskatchewan - The Lepidoptera fauna is not very well
to the anal angle). Ignore this if the wings are reduced or known here so marking this may eliminate taxa that are
absent. (Fig. 65) present.

Abdomen Manitoba - The Lepidoptera fauna is relatively well known

Ovipositor - The abdominal tip of most female Lepidoptera here.
is fleshy; however, in some taxa there is a sclerotized and
elongated ovipostitor. If a sclerotized-looking ovipositor Ontario - The Lepidoptera fauna is relatively well known
extends beyond the abdominal scales, mark the ovipositor here.
as sclerotized.
Quebec - The Lepidoptera fauna is relatively well known
Sclerotized - A sclerotized and elongate ovipositor is here.
present. (Fig. 66)
New Brunswick - The Lepidoptera fauna is not very well
Non-sclerotized - A sclerotized and elongate ovipositor known here so marking this may eliminate taxa that are
is absent. present.

Prince Edward Island - The Lepidoptera fauna is not

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very well known here so marking this may eliminate taxa shape, small proboscis, and bulging vertex of the head will
that are present. separate this from other similar-looking families. The two
species can be separated by wing pattern.
Nova Scotia - The Lepidoptera fauna is relatively well Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli prominent; compound eyes
known here. small; chaetosemata present; head scales sparse and
rough; mandibles present though difficult to see; very
Newfoundland and Labrador - The Lepidoptera fauna is small proboscis present; labial palps slender and relatively
not very well known here so marking this may eliminate short; maxillary palps prominent; antenna filiform, with
taxa that are present. one scale row per segment, about half the length of the
forewing. THORAX: wings homoneurous, with a jugum;
TAXON DIAGNOSES forewing somewhat translucent with a metallic sheen, often
with fine lines or spots; hindwing slightly translucent grey;
Micropterigidae (Fig. 70) legs with tibial spur formula of 0-1-4, hind tibial spurs
Superfamily: Micropterigoidea of normal length, hind tarsal spines present though not
Number of Canadian species: 1 mostly eastern sp. usually obvious. ABDOMEN: entirely smooth; female
(Epimartyria auricrinella) + 1 undescribed sp. in BC with a prominent ovipositor.
Genera: Epimartyria Similar taxa: Micropterigidae (forewing unpatterned, no
Abundance: Very localized to wet areas where the larval proboscis)
host liverwort occurs, diurnal and rarely collected unless Taxonomic references: Davis 1978
specifically targeted.
Quick recognition: The combination of the metallic wings, Acanthopteroctetidae (Fig. 72)
forewing and hindwing similar in shape and proboscis Superfamily: Acanthopteroctetoidea
being absent will separate this from other similar-looking Number of Canadian species: 1 sp. Acanthopteroctetes
families. The two species are easily separated by wing bimaculata in Canada only known from Manitoba to
pattern. Alberta in boreal and mountain habitats; another species
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli prominent; compound eyes will likely be found in southern Alberta.
small; chaetosemata present; head scales sparse and Genera: Acanthopteroctetes
rough; functional mandibles present though difficult to Abundance: Very rarely collected probably due to its
see; proboscis absent; labial palps slender and relatively diurnal or crepuscular habits.
short; maxillary palps prominent; antenna filiform, with one Quick recognition: The homoneurous wings, lack of
scale row per segment, though often completely worn off, iridescence on the wings and lack of ocelli are characteristic.
greater than half the length of the forewing, with prominent Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; compound eyes relatively
sensillae surrounding each flagellomere. THORAX: wings larger than other related families; head scales rough;
homoneurous, with a jugum; forewing dark metallic with a mandibles present though difficult to see; small proboscis
purplish sheen, unicolourous in Epimartyria auricrinella, present but often difficult to see; labial palps minute and
with a broad yellow postmedial blotch in the undescribed descending; maxillary palps prominent, longer than
species; hindwing lighter though still with a metallic sheen; proboscis; antenna filiform, with one or two scale rows
legs with tibial spur formula of 0-0-4, hind tibial spurs per segment, greater than half the length of the forewing.
short, hind tarsal spines present though not always obvious. THORAX: wings homoneurous, with a small jugum;
ABDOMEN: entirely smooth, dark. forewing dull greyish, often with the indication of two
Similar taxa: Eriocraniidae (forewing patterned, small darker spots along the inner margin; hindwing greyish; legs
proboscis present) with tibial spur formula of 0-1-4, hind tibial spurs just less
Taxonomic references: Covell 1984 than half length of first tarsomere, hind tibial and tarsal
spines obvious. ABDOMEN: entirely smooth.
Eriocraniidae (Fig. 71) Similar taxa: Most similar to Eriocraniidae and
Superfamily: Eriocranioidea Micropterigidae, but both of these have prominent ocelli.
Number of Canadian species: 2 spp. (Dyseriocrania Taxonomic references: Davis 1978
griseocapitella in the east and Eriocrania semipurpurella
across the boreal zone) Hepialidae (Fig. 73)
Genera: Dyseriocrania, Eriocrania Superfamily: Hepialoidea
Abundance: Rarely collected, but can be locally common, Number of Canadian species: 12 spp. found throughout
comes to light. Canada south of the tundra.
Quick recognition: The metallic sheen to the wings with Genera: Gazorycta, Korscheltellus, Paraphymatopus,
fine strigulated pattern, forewing and hindwing similar in Sthenopis

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Abundance: Uncommon to locally common, some species Genera: Opostegoides, Pseudopostega

frequent lights, many are most frequently found in mating Abundance: rare, some species come to lights
swarms in the evening. Quick recognition: The minute size (forewing length 5 mm
Quick recognition: Large to huge thick-bodied micromoths or less) combined with the large eye-caps and mostly white
with relatively small heads, short antennae, and forewings make it easily recognizable. Most species need
homoneurous wings. Most species are easy to recognize to be dissected for positive identification.
by wing pattern, though there is no modern literature on Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; head scales smooth or
Paraphymatopus. rough; proboscis very short and difficult to see; labial palps
Diagnosis: HEAD: tiny relative to thorax; ocelli absent; small and descending; maxillary palps often prominent;
head scales rough; proboscis absent; both labial and antenna filiform, with one scale row per segment, half
maxillary palps tiny; antenna filiform, scale-less, very length of the forewing or more, with a very large eye-cap
short. THORAX: wings homoneurous, with a jugum; at the base. THORAX: wings heteroneurous and lanceolate,
forewing usually marked with broad bands or blotches, without a frenulum though with a row of curved scales that
sometimes metallic; hindwing usually mostly unpatterned; serves the same function; forewing always predominantly
legs with without tibial spurs, hind tibial and tarsal spines white, often with some darker markings; hindwing usually
not obvious except in Gazorycta. ABDOMEN: entirely pale brownish grey; legs with tibial spur formula of 0-2-4,
smooth, and relatively long. hind tibial spurs variably prominent, very large hind tibial
Similar taxa: No other family of homoneurous moths spines present, tibial spines often present. ABDOMEN:
approaches the size of a hepialid. entirely smooth.
Taxonomic references: Barnes & Benjamin 1925 Similar taxa: Nepticulidae (forewing mostly darkly
(Gazorycta spp.); Powell & Opler 2009 (Paraphymatopus patterned)
spp. and some others); Handfield 1999 (eastern spp.) Taxonomic references: Davis & Stonis 2007

Nepticulidae (Fig. 74) Heliozelidae (Fig. 76)

Superfamily: Nepticuloidea Superfamily: Incurvarioidea
Number of Canadian species: 37 spp. found across Canada Number of Canadian species: at least 13 spp. sporadic
Genera: Stigmella, Ectoedemia, Etainia, Glaucolepis across Canada, most spp. in the East.
Abundance: uncommon, some species come to lights Genera: Antispila, Coptodisca
Quick recognition: The minute size (forewing length 3 Abundance: Rare, typically collected diurnally.
mm or less) combined with the large eye-caps and darkly Quick recognition: Very small, metallic forewing, scaled
patterned forewings make it easily recognizable. Most proboscis, descending labial palps, ocelli absent, sclerotized
species need to be dissected for positive identification. ovipositor. Difficult to identify due to lack of literature.
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present; Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; head
head scales rough, rarely smooth on the frons; proboscis scales smooth; proboscis present and scaled at base, scaling
very short and can be difficult to see; labial palps small and can be difficult to see; labial palps descending; maxillary
descending; maxillary palps prominent; antenna filiform, palps visible; antenna filiform, with two scale rows per
with one scale row per segment, half length of the forewing segment, that rarely appears as one scale row per segment,
or shorter, with a very large rounded eye-cap at the base. half the length of the forewing or less. THORAX: wings
THORAX: wings heteroneurous and lanceolate, with heteroneurous and lanceolate, with a frenulum; forewing
a frenulum, jugum sometimes present; forewing dark metallic usually with broad antemedial or postmedial
and usually metallic, often with a pale band; hindwing bands; hindwing grey; legs with tibial spur formula of 0-2-
usually pale grey; legs with tibial spur formula of 0-2-4, 4, hind tibial spurs large. ABDOMEN: entirely smooth,
hind tibial spurs prominent, very large hind tibial spines with a sclerotized ovipositor.
present though sometimes obscured. ABDOMEN: entirely Similar taxa: Elachistidae, Elachistinae are similar, but
smooth, dark. the forewing pattern is never as bold and metallic and the
Similar taxa: Opostegidae (forewing mostly white) ovipositor is not sclerotized.
Taxonomic references: Wilkinson & Scoble 1979 (most Taxonomic references: Lafontaine 1973 (some Antispila),
spp.); Wilkinson 1981; Wilkinson & Newton 1981 Forbes 1923 (a few)
(Ectoedemia); Puplesis & Diskus 2003 (generic revision)
Adelidae (Fig. 77)
Opostegidae (Fig. 75) Superfamily: Incurvarioidea
Superfamily: Nepticuloidea Number of Canadian species: 13 spp. across Canada but
Number of Canadian species: at least 4 spp. found across most diverse in the West, some undescribed.
Canada Genera: Adela, Cauchas, Nemophora

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Abundance: Common, most species encountered diurnally, spurs prominent; tarsal spines usually absent. ABDOMEN:
especially in mating swarms or at flowers. entirely smooth, with a sclerotized ovipositor.
Quick recognition: Usually metallic, often with antennae Similar taxa: Adelidae usually have much longer antennae,
much longer than the forewing length, with two scale are usually metallic, and always have two rows of scales
rows per antennal segment, rough scaling on the head, per antennal segment. Prodoxinae typically have more
with a scaled proboscis and lacking ocelli. Generally easy distinctive tarsal spines, often lack bold blotchy markings
to identify though there are a few undescribed species in on the forewing, and never have a scaled proboscis.
the West. Incurvariidae can be separated by forewing pattern.
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; head Tineidae lack a scaled proboscis.
scales rough, occasionally smooth on the frons; proboscis Taxonomic references: Dietz 1905 (some Lampronia);
present and scaled at base, scaling can be difficult to see; Davis et al. 1992 (Tetragma)
labial palps descending or porrect; maxillary palps small;
antenna filiform, sometimes thickened on shaft or at base, Prodoxidae, Prodoxinae (Fig. 79)
with two scale rows per segment, greater than half the Superfamily: Incurvarioidea
length of the forewing in Cauchas, much longer than the Number of Canadian species: at least 12 spp. in western
forewing in other genera. THORAX: wings heteroneurous Canada and in extreme southern Ontario (where they are
and rounded, with a frenulum; forewing often metallic likely introduced).
and often with prominent lines; hindwing usually grey; Genera: Greya, Prodoxus, Tegeticula
legs with tibial spur formula of 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs Abundance: Rare to locally uncommon, Prodoxus and
variable; tarsal spines prominent. ABDOMEN: entirely Tegeticula are found in close association with yucca
smooth, with a sclerotized ovipositor. flowers.
Similar taxa: Prodoxidae are similar but can be separated by Quick recognition: Greya is either uniformly greyish or has
the typically less metallic wing markings, longer maxillary a blotchy forewing pattern; The other genera are closely
palps, and most genera do not have two distinct scale rows associated with yucca and are white, sometimes with black
per antennal segment; if with two scale rows, they lack markings on the forewing. The very long labial palps are
a scaled proboscis. Incurvariidae can be separated since characteristic in most species. Fairly easy to identify to
they have one scale row per antennal segment. Tineidae species.
are less commonly metallic and lack a scaled proboscis. Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; head
Taxonomic references: Powell 1969 (mostly western spp.); scales rough; proboscis present and unscaled; labial palps
Handfield 1999 (some eastern spp.) ascending or porrect; maxillary palps normally quite long
and sometimes form flexible tentacles; antenna filiform,
Prodoxidae, Lamproniinae (Fig. 78) with variable scaling, usually less than half the length of
Superfamily: Incurvarioidea the forewing. THORAX: wings heteroneurous and rounded,
Number of Canadian species: at least 7 spp. across Canada with a frenulum; forewing with a bold blotchy pattern,
but most diverse in the West. uniformly greyish, or white, sometimes with black spots;
Genera: Lampronia, Tetragma hindwing usually white, sometimes greyish; legs with tibial
Abundance: Uncommon to locally common, encountered spur formula of 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs variable, tarsal
diurnally or nocturnally. spines usually present. ABDOMEN: entirely smooth, with
Quick recognition: Most Lampronia have a bold blotchy a sclerotized ovipositor.
pattern or are metallic on the forewing, Tetragma is Similar taxa: Adelidae usually have much longer antennae
uniformly creamy. The combination of sclerotized and are usually metallic, and always have two rows of scales
ovipositor, lack of ocelli, scaled proboscis, long maxillary per antennal segment. Lamproniinae typically have less
palps, and forewing pattern will help seperate it from most distinctive tarsal spines, usually have a scaled proboscis,
similar taxa. Some species are easy to identify, though and have a different forewing pattern. Incurvariidae can
there is a lack of comprehensive literature. be separated by forewing pattern. Tineidae usually have
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; head shorter maxillary palps.
scales usually rough; proboscis usually short and usually Taxonomic references: Davis et al. 1992 (Greya); Powell
scaled at base; labial palps ascending or porrect; maxillary & Opler 2009 (Prodoxus); Pellmyr 1999 (Tegeticula)
palps quite long; antenna filiform, with one scale row per
segment or unscaled, about half the length of the forewing Incurvariidae (Fig. 80)
or less. THORAX: wings heteroneurous and rounded, with Superfamily: Incurvarioidea
a frenulum; forewing with a bold blotchy pattern, metallic, Number of Canadian species: at least 2 spp. across southern
or uniformly grey; hindwing usually whitish brown, can be Canada.
metallic; legs with tibial spur formula of 0-2-4, hind tibial Genera: Paraclemensia, Phylloporia

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Abundance: Rare to locally abundant, Paraclemensia Number of Canadian species: well over 40 spp. across
acerifoliella can outbreak in Sugar Maple forests, regularly Canada.
taken at lights. Genera: Dryadaula, Eccritothrix, Elatobia, Haplotinea,
Quick recognition: Paraclemensia acerifoliella is easily Homosetia, Isocorypha, Monopis, Morophagoides,
recognized by the metallic blue forewings and orange Nemapogon, Niditinea, Scardia, Scardiella, Tinea, Tineola,
head. Phylloporia bistrigella is brownish with pale white Trichophaga, Xylesthia, and others.
antemedial and postmedial lines like many other small Abundance: Common, most species come to light.
microleps, but the large maxillary palps, scaled proboscis, Quick recognition: Difficult to characterize; usually small
and rough orange head scales will distinguish it. microleps, sometimes moderate sized, head scales rough
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; and usually most prominent on the vertex, ocelli absent,
head scales rough and orange on the vertex, sometimes proboscis reduced or lost, distinct bristles are usually
partially appressed on the frons; proboscis short and scaled; present on the second segment of the labial palps, most
labial palps variable in orientation; maxillary palps long; species drab in colour. Many are difficult to identify to
antenna filiform, with variable scaling, usually around half species due to an abundance of undescribed species and
the length of the forewing. THORAX: wings heteroneurous outdated literature.
and rounded to nearly lanceolate, with a frenulum; forewing Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; head
metallic blue or brown with white lines; hindwing greyish scales rough and usually prominent on vertex; proboscis
and translucent; legs with tibial spur formula of 0-2-4, reduced or absent, naked; labial palps usually long and
hind tibial spurs long, tarsal spines sometimes present. tufted, typically with prominent bristles on the second
ABDOMEN: entirely smooth, with a sclerotized ovipositor. segment; maxillary palps variable; antenna filiform, with
Similar taxa: The two species can be separated from other one scale row per segment that often appears as two
similar microleps as outlined above. rows, usually longer than half the length of the forewing.
Taxonomic references: Covell 1984 (Paraclemensia); THORAX: wings heteroneurous and often lanceolate,
Dietz 1905 (Phylloporia) with a frenulum; forewing usually drab, sometimes boldly
patterned; hindwing also drab; legs with tibial spur formula
Tischeriidae (Fig. 81) of 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs usually long. ABDOMEN:
Superfamily: Tischerioidea entirely smooth.
Number of Canadian species: at least 9 spp. across Canada, Similar taxa: The distinct bristles on the labial palps are
most diverse in the Southeast. normally present and will separate tineids from all other
Genera: Coptotriche microleps except Acrolophidae and Psychidae. Both of
Abundance: Rarely collected, rarely comes to light. the latter families have few Canadian species and are best
Quick recognition: Very small often pale coloured separated by wing pattern.
microleps, head tapering towards the proboscis which Taxonomic references: Dietz 1905 (many species); Powell
is scaled, prominent rough `mushroom` of scales on & Opler 2009 (many western species); Robinson 1986
the vertex with smoothly scaled frons, and very long (Scardiinae)
antennal sensillae. Specimens must be dissected for specific
identification. Acrolophidae (Fig. 83)
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; head scales prominent Superfamily: Tineoidea
and forming a mushroom-like appearance on the vertex, Number of Canadian species: 4 spp. across Canada
scales appressed on the frons; proboscis scaled; labial including 1 undescribed sp.
palps short and descending; maxillary palps small; antenna Genera: Acrolophus, Amydria
filiform, with a broadened scape, normally with two scale Abundance: Rare to uncommon, can be found at light.
rows per segment, with prominent long sensillae on the Quick recognition: Acrolophus is rather large and has very
underside, usually longer than half the length of the long and sparse scales on the head and thorax. Amydria
forewing. THORAX: wings heteroneurous and lanceolate, looks like a typical tineid and is best identified by the
with a frenulum; forewing usually drab and unicolourous, forewing pattern. They are relatively easy to identify to
sometimes metallic; hindwing pale; legs with tibial spur species.
formula of 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs long. ABDOMEN: Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent;
entirely smooth. head scales rough and often sparse and hair-like; proboscis
Similar taxa: The characters of the head are diagnostic. absent; labial palps ascending, variable in length and
Taxonomic references: Braun 1972 always tufted, with prominent spines laterally; maxillary
palps small; antenna filiform, with one or two scale rows
Tineidae (Fig. 82) per segment, longer than half the length of the forewing in
Superfamily: Tineoidea Amydria, much shorter in Acrolophus. THORAX: wings

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heteroneurous and rounded, with a frenulum; forewing Abundance: Rare to locally common, diurnal on their host
usually drab and brownish, with fine darker markings; plants or at light.
hindwing paler; legs with tibial spur formula of 0-2-4, Quick recognition: The brown and white dusted forewing
hind tibial spurs variable. ABDOMEN: entirely smooth. with two brown bands coupled with the distinctly narrower
Similar taxa: The distinct bristles on the labial palps are hindwing is distinctive.
normally present and will separate acrolophids from all Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent;
other microleps except Tineidae and Psychidae. The last head scales smooth; proboscis present; labial palps usually
two familes are best separated by wing pattern. descending, moderately long, tufted, maxillary palps small;
Taxonomic references: Dietz 1905 (Amydria); Hasbrouck antenna filiform, with one scale row per segment, about half
1964 (Acrolophus) the length of the forewing. THORAX: wings heteroneurous
and lanceolate, with a frenulum; forewing consistent in
Psychidae (Fig. 84) pattern, brown and white dusted with two broad brown
Superfamily: Tineoidea bands; hindwing much narrower than the forewing, evenly
Number of Canadian species: 9 spp. across Canada brown; legs with tibial spur formula of 0-2-4, hind tibial
Genera: Apterona, Astala, Dahlica, Hyaloscotes, spurs usually long. ABDOMEN: smooth.
Kearfottia, Psyche, Taleporia Similar taxa: The wing pattern and difference in size
Abundance: Uncommon to locally common, most between the fore and hindwings are diagnostic.
commonly seen as larval cases, some species come to light. Taxonomic references: Gaedike 1990
Quick recognition: Easiest to recognize when associated
with larval cases. Otherwise adults are quite variable in Bucculatricidae (Fig. 86)
appearance. Females are larviform and typically stay close Superfamily: Gracillarioidea
to the larval case. The most widespread species appear Number of Canadian species: At least 32 spp. across
similar to a typical tineid with relatively slender wings, Canada.
while some of the rarer species have very broad wings, or Genera: Bucculatrix
sharply pointed ones that are translucent. Most are easy Abundance: uncommon to locally abundant, diurnal or
to identify to species, especially when associated with a at light.
larval case, but a few require dissection. Quick recognition: The elongate pointed face, naked
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; proboscis, rough-scaled vertex and smooth scaled frons,
head scales usually rough, occasionally smooth; proboscis small eye-cap, and in the male a notched basal segment
absent; labial palps variable in orientation, short, and of the antenna is distinctive. Reared specimens are easily
usually tufted; maxillary palps small; antenna filiform or recognized by the characteristic ribbed cocoon of this
pectinate, with variable scaling, usually less than half the family. Many specimens need dissection for specific
length of the forewing. THORAX: wings heteroneurous identification.
and rounded, sometimes pointed, usually fairly slender Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; head with a distinct tuft of
though very broad in a few species, absent to greatly scales on the vertex, scales smooth on the elongate pointed
reduced in the females of most species, with a frenulum; frons; proboscis small; all palps tiny; antenna filiform,
forewing variable in pattern from drab and brownish, with with two scale rows per segment, longer than half the
fine darker markings, to translucent, to unicolourous, to length of the forewing. THORAX: wings heteroneurous
having a broad white band; hindwing paler or similar to and lanceolate, with a frenulum; forewing often boldly
the forewing; legs with tibial spur formula of 0-2-4, hind patterned, usually with oblique bands, spots, or streaks,
tibial spurs variable. ABDOMEN: smooth to hairy. sometimes with metallic markings; hindwing evenly grey
Similar taxa: Most flightless females of other families will or brown; legs with tibial spur formula of 0-2-4, hind tibial
have at least small wing pads present, while in Psychidae spurs usually long, hind tibiae with long hair-like scales.
they are usually not visible. The smaller species look just ABDOMEN: smooth.
like tineids and are best separated by wing pattern. Similar taxa: The head characters described above are
Taxonomic references: Davis 1964 (all but Dahlica and diagnostic.
Kearfottia); Handfield 1999 (most eastern spp.) Taxonomic references: Braun 1963 (nearly all species)

Douglasiidae (Fig. 85) Gracillariidae, Gracillariinae (Fig. 87)

Superfamily: Gracillarioidea Superfamily: Gracillarioidea
Number of Canadian species: 4 described spp. and at least Number of Canadian species: At least 65 spp. across
one undescribed spp.; in western Canada with only one of Canada.
these found in the East. Genera: Acrocercops, Callisto, Caloptilia, Gracillaria,
Genera: Tinagma Leucanthiza, Marmara, Micrurapteryx, Parectopa,

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Parornix prominent hind tibial and tarsal spines and have the bold
Abundance: common to locally abundant, most come to markings on the forewing mostly near the apex. Other
light, some commonly hibernating under bark. tiny microleps of similar pattern typically have a scaled
Quick recognition: Slender microleps that typically rest in proboscis. The easiest way to separate the subfamilies is
a `push-up` position with the front of the body elevated; to key specimens out.
antennae with a single scale row and quite long; proboscis Taxonomic references: Braun 1908 (most spp.); Forbes
naked. Most species difficult to identify due to a lack of 1923 (key to most genera & some spp.); Powell & Opler
literature. 2009 (some western spp.)
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; head
scales smooth, sometimes rough on the vertex; proboscis Gracillariidae, Phyllocnistinae (Fig. 89)
present, but sometimes difficult to see; labial palps usually Superfamily: Gracillarioidea
ascending, usually long, usually slender; antenna filiform, Number of Canadian species: At least 3 spp. across Canada.
with one scale row per segment, about the length of the Genera: Phyllocnistis
forewing. THORAX: wings heteroneurous and lanceolate, Abundance: uncommon to common, at light or hibernating
with a frenulum; forewing pattern variable, often boldly under bark.
patterned, sometimes metallic; hindwing evenly grey Quick recognition: Tiny microleps, the forewing is white
or brown; legs with tibial spur formula of 0-2-4, hind with a complex pattern on the outer two-fifths of the wing,
tibial spurs usually short, rarely with hind tibial spines. with a single scale row per segment on the antenna and a
ABDOMEN: smooth. naked proboscis. They are most easily identified to species
Similar taxa: The most similar taxa are the other subfamilies when associated with a larval leafmine.
of Gracillariidae. Both Phyllocnistinae and Lithocolletinae Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; head
are usually smaller (forewing length 1.5-3.9 mm), while scales smooth; proboscis present, though can be difficult to
in Gracillariinae the forewing length is 2.5-5.0 mm. The see; labial palps descending, fairly long, slender; antenna
easiest way to separate the subfamilies is to key specimens filiform, with one scale row per segment, shorter than the
out. length of the forewing. THORAX: wings heteroneurous
Taxonomic references: Forbes 1923 (key to genera & some and lanceolate, with a frenulum; forewing white with a
spp.); Powell & Opler 2009 (some western spp.) complex pattern on the outer two-fifths, occasionally with a
dark blotch along the inner margin near the base; hindwing
Gracillariidae, Lithocolletinae (Fig. 88) very slender, evenly grey; legs with tibial spur formula of
Superfamily: Gracillarioidea 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs usually fairly long, hind tibial and
Number of Canadian species: At least 65 spp. across tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: smooth.
Canada. Similar taxa: The forewing pattern, spined hind tibiae
Genera: Cameraria, Chrysaster, Cremastobombycia, and tarsi, and tiny size (forewing length 1.5-2.8 mm) will
Phyllonorycter, Porphyrosela, Prolithocolletis separate it from other Gracillariidae. Other tiny microleps
Abundance: uncommon to common, most come to light. of similar pattern typically have a scaled proboscis or lack
Quick recognition: Tiny microleps, typically with boldly spines on the hind tibiae and tarsi.
patterned forewings, with a single scale row per antennal Taxonomic references: Forbes 1923; Powell & Opler 2009
segment and a naked proboscis. Most need dissection for (some spp.)
specific identification.
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; Yponomeutidae, Attevinae (Fig. 90)
head scales usually rough on the vertex, smooth on the Superfamily: Yponomeutoidea
frons; proboscis present; labial palps descending, variable Number of Canadian species: 1 species (Atteva aurea) in
in length, slender; antenna filiform, with one scale row southern ON and QC.
per segment, about the length of the forewing. THORAX: Genera: Atteva
wings heteroneurous and lanceolate, with a frenulum; Abundance: uncommon at lights.
forewing usually boldly patterned with oblique lines or Quick recognition: The forewing pattern, with clusters of
triangles, sometimes metallic; hindwing usually evenly pale spots, is unmistakeable.
grey; legs with tibial spur formula of 0-2-4, hind tibial Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; head scales smooth,
spurs variable in length. ABDOMEN: smooth. slightly roughened on the vertex; proboscis naked; labial
Similar taxa: The most similar taxa are the other palps ascending, two times as long as the compound eye,
subfamilies of Gracillariidae. Gracillariinae are typically slender; antenna filiform, with one scale row per segment,
larger (forewing length 2.5-5.0 mm, in Lithocolletinae shorter than the length of the forewing. THORAX: wings
1.8-3.9 mm) and have usually ascending labial palps and heteroneurous and broad, with a frenulum; forewing orange
a smoothly scaled vertex. Phyllocnistinae usually have with clusters of yellow spots surrounded by metallic blue;

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hindwing grey and very translucent towards the center; legs Quick recognition: Live specimens are easily recognized
with tibial spur formula of 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs short. by the characteristic head-standing pose. Slender lanceolate
ABDOMEN: smooth. wings, forewing often with distinctive golden blotches or
Similar taxa: None pure gold, coupled with no ocelli, naked proboscis, and
Taxonomic references: Wilson et al. 2010 rough vertex with smooth frons will help distinguish this
from most other taxa. Species identification is easy for most
Yponomeutidae, Yponomeutinae (Fig. 91) boldly-patterned species, but more challenging for others.
Superfamily: Yponomeutoidea Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; head scales rough on the
Number of Canadian species: 15 species across Canada. vertex and smooth on the frons; proboscis naked; labial
Genera: Eucalantica, Euhyponomeutoides, Kessleria, palps variable in orientation, fairly long, slender; antenna
Ocnerostoma, Paraswammerdamia, Swammerdamia, filiform, with one or two scale rows per segment, longer
Yponomeuta, Zelleria than half the length of the forewing. THORAX: wings
Abundance: uncommon, most come to light. heteroneurous and lanceolate; forewing pattern often with
Quick recognition: Quite variable on the generic level a complex pattern of blotches or strigulae, sometimes
and difficult to characterize overall. Some species easily unicolourous, shiny to metallic; hindwing usually grey
recognized by the broad white forewing with fine black or brown; legs with tibial spur formula 0-2-4, hind tibial
spots. Others tend to be much more slender. Species spurs long; ABDOMEN: smooth.
identification can be challenging. Similar taxa: Some Yponomeutinae are similar, but they
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; head scales rough, often typically have tarsal spines, otherwise they are difficult
smooth on the frons; proboscis present; labial palps porrect to separate. Bedelliidae can be separated by forewing
or descending, usually fairly long, slender, rarely tufted; pattern. Tineidae typically have a less prominent proboscis.
antenna filiform, with two scale rows per segment, usually Gracillariidae can be similar, but always have 1 scale row
longer than half the length of the forewing. THORAX: per antennal segment and often have shorter hind tibial
wings heteroneurous and either broad or lanceolate, spurs.
sometimes very slender, with a frenulum; forewing Taxonomic references: Busck 1907; Freeman 1972 (some
pattern variable, sometimes white with black spots, often species)
streaky, sometimes unpatterned; hindwing usually grey
or brown; legs with tibial spur formula 0-2-4, hind tibial Ypsolophidae, Ypsolophinae (Fig. 93)
spurs variable, hind tarsal spines sometimes present. Superfamily: Yponomeutoidea
ABDOMEN: smooth. Number of Canadian species: at least 13 species across
Similar taxa: Argyresthiinae are closely related and Canada, most diverse in the west.
similar, most species have bold patterns that will Genera: Euceratia, Ypsolopha
immediately distinguish them and they never have tarsal Abundance: rare to uncommon at light.
spines. Plutellidae can be separated by the distinctive Quick recognition: Most species have a prominent curved
forward projecting triangular scale tuft on the labial tip to the forewing, if not then they usually have a bulge
palps. Bedelliidae can be separated by forewing pattern. at both the apex and anal angle of the forewing. Most
Bucculatricidae typically have a very boldly patterned wing species also have very long porrect labial palps. Species
and have a characteristic elongate and smooth scaled frons identifications are challenging in the west due to the lack
combined with a distinct scale tuft on the vertex. Urodidae of literature.
can be separated by the pattern and distinct raised scales Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli usually absent; head scales rough;
of the forewing. Tineidae typically have a less prominent proboscis present; labial palps variable in orientation but
proboscis and much rougher looking scales on the vertex. usually porrect, long, usually tufted; antenna filiform,
Copromorphidae can be separated on wing pattern. with two scale rows per segment, usually longer than half
Taxonomic references: Freeman 1960 (Ocnerostoma, the length of the forewing, usually with fairly prominent
Zelleria); Powell & Opler 2009 (Eucalantica, Zelleria); sensillae. THORAX: wings heteroneurous and broadly
Duckworth 1965 (most Swammerdamia); Sperling et al. lanceolate, forewing often with a prominent hook at the
1995 (Yponomeuta); Braun 1940 (Kessleria) apex, otherwise usually with prominent bulges at the apex
and anal angle; forewing pattern variable, most often
Yponomeutidae, Argyresthiinae (Fig. 92) yellow and brown; hindwing usually grey or brown; legs
Superfamily: Yponomeutoidea with tibial spur formula 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs variable,
Number of Canadian species: at least 22 species across hind tarsal spines present; ABDOMEN: smooth, sometimes
Canada. with a prominent ovipositor.
Genera: Argyresthia Similar taxa: A few ypsolophines lack the peculiar shaped
Abundance: common at light. forewings and are similar to Yponomeutinae, which never

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have the massive porrect labial palps. Acrolepiidae (Fig. 96)

Taxonomic references: Aurelian 2008 (most species east Superfamily: Yponomeutoidea
of BC); Powell & Opler 2009 (some western species) Number of Canadian species: 3 spp., 1 probably widespread
in the west and 2 in southern ON & QC.
Ypsolophidae, Ochsenheimeriinae (Fig. 94) Genera: Acrolepiopsis
Superfamily: Yponomeutoidea Abundance: rare, though one is an introduced pest on
Number of Canadian species: A single species leeks in ON & QC.
Ochsenheimeria vaculella has been introduced from Quick recognition: Labial palps ascending and un-tufted,
Europe and can be found in ON and QC. proboscis naked, ocelli present. Identification to species
Genera: Ochsenheimeria may require dissection.
Abundance: rare at light. Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent;
Quick recognition: The vertex and antennal base with long head scales rough on vertex, smooth on frons; proboscis
scales, smoothly scaled frons, tibial spines, and yellow present; labial palps ascending, long, slender without
band on the abdomen will identify this species. tufts; antenna filiform, with two scale rows per segment,
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; head scales rough and greater than half the length of the forewing. THORAX:
long on the vertex, smooth on the frons; proboscis present; wings heteroneurous and broadly lanceolate; forewing
labial palps ascending, long, tufted; antenna filiform, with brown to grey with the most prominent marking a white
long dense scales at base, with two scale rows per segment, triangular spot on the inner margin in the antemedial area,
less than half the length of the forewing. THORAX: wings other markings variably present; hindwing greyish; legs
heteroneurous and broadly lanceolate; forewing usually with tibial spur formula 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs long, hind
dull, brown; hindwing greyish brown, very pale at base; tarsal spines sometimes present; ABDOMEN: smooth.
legs with tibial spur formula 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs long, Similar taxa: Plutellidae have a prominent triangular tuft
hind tibial and tarsal spines present; ABDOMEN: smooth of scales on the labial palps.
and brown with a yellow band distally. Taxonomic references: Landry 2007
Similar taxa: The quick recognition characters will separate
it from other taxa. Glyphipterigidae (Fig. 97)
Taxonomic references: Covell 1984 Superfamily: Yponomeutoidea
Number of Canadian species: 9 spp. across Canada.
Plutellidae (Fig. 95) Genera: Diploschizia, Glyphipterix
Superfamily: Yponomeutoidea Abundance: rare to uncommon, diurnal.
Number of Canadian species: At least 6 spp. nearly Quick recognition: The prominent curved metallic
everywhere in Canada, most diverse in the West. wing markings, naked proboscis, and large ocelli are
Genera: Plutella, Pseudoplutella, Rhigognostis characteristic. Identification to species is usually not too
Abundance: common at light. difficult.
Quick recognition: The forward-pointing scale tuft on the Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli large; chaetosemata absent; head
second segment of the labial palps is distinctive. Species scales smooth; proboscis present; labial palps usually
are generally easy to identify, but the literature is lacking ascending, long, usually slender; antenna filiform, often
for most. with prominent sensillae, with two scale rows per segment,
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; head scales rough, about half the length of the forewing or less. THORAX:
rarely smooth on the frons; proboscis present; labial palps wings heteroneurous and fairly broad, hindwing sometimes
ascending, usually long, with a prominent triangular scale lanceolate; forewing variable in pattern, markings typically
tuft on the second segment; antenna filiform, with two curved and metallic; hindwing brown; legs with tibial spur
scale rows per segment, greater than half the length of the formula 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs long; ABDOMEN: smooth,
forewing. THORAX: wings heteroneurous and broadly sometimes boldly patterned.
lanceolate; forewing usually with markings elongate; Similar taxa: Choreutidae have a scaled proboscis.
hindwing greyish; legs with tibial spur formula 0-2-4, Taxonomic references: Heppner 1985
hind tibial spurs usually short, hind tarsal spines usually
present; ABDOMEN: smooth. Heliodinidae (Fig. 98)
Similar taxa: None, the triangular scale tufts on the labial Superfamily: Yponomeutoidea
palps are distinctive. Number of Canadian species: 1 sp., Neoheliodines
Taxonomic references: Covell 1984 (Plutella xylostella); nyctaginella in southern MB.
Forbes 1923 (eastern Plutella); Kyrki 1989 (Rhigognostis); Genera: Neoheliodines
Powell & Opler 2009; Baraniak 2007 (some western spp.) Abundance: very rare, diurnal.
Quick recognition: The distinctive forewing markings

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coupled with smoothly-scaled head, naked proboscis, and segment, usually longer than the length of the forewing.
drooping labial palps will identify it. THORAX: wings heteroneurous and lanceolate; forewing
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent; variable in pattern and colour; hindwing usually greyish
head scales smooth; proboscis present; labial palps brown; legs with tibial spur formula 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs
descending, short, slender; antenna filiform, with two variable in length; ABDOMEN: smooth.
scale rows per segment, longer than half the length of the Similar taxa: Both Bedelliidae and Argyresthiinae are
forewing. THORAX: wings heteroneurous and lanceolate; similar. Bedelliidae are best separated by forewing pattern.
forewing metallic, orange with black borders and metallic Argyresthiinae usually have a slightly broader forewing
spots; hindwing greyish brown; legs with tibial spur and often have a more blotchy pattern compared to the
formula 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs long; ABDOMEN: smooth. finer markings typical of Lyonetiidae.
Similar taxa: Several other microleps have a similar Taxonomic references: Forbes 1923 (Paraleucoptera,
forewing pattern but these all have a scaled proboscis. Proleucoptera, some Lyonetia)
Taxonomic references: Covell 1984
Elachistidae, Stenomatinae (Fig. 101)
Bedelliidae (Fig. 99) Superfamily: Gelechioidea
Superfamily: Yponomeutoidea Number of Canadian species: 5 spp., in eastern Canada
Number of Canadian species: 1 sp., Bedellia somnulentella and 1 sp. in southern BC.
across southern Canada. Genera: Antaeotricha, Gonioterma, Menesta
Genera: Bedellia Abundance: rare to common at light.
Abundance: rare to uncommon at light. Quick recognition: Scaled proboscis, elongate squared
Quick recognition: The naked proboscis, roughly scaled forewings, broader hindwings, usually large in size. Most
vertex, lack of ocelli, expanded antennal base, and drooping are easy to identify to species, dissection is often necessary
labial palps will help identify it. for Antaeotricha.
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent;
head scales rough on the vertex, smooth on the frons; head scales often rough on the vertex, usually smooth on
proboscis present; labial palps descending, usually short, the frons; proboscis scaled; labial palps ascending, long,
slender; antenna filiform, with two scale rows per segment, slender; antenna filiform, with two scale rows per segment,
usually longer than the length of the forewing. THORAX: with prominent sensillae, usually longer than half the
wings heteroneurous and lanceolate; forewing drab greyish length of the forewing. THORAX: sometimes tufted; wings
to brownish and finely speckled, sometimes with more heteroneurous, forewing elongate and squared, hindwing
distinctive cream markings along inner margin; hindwing broader; forewing usually mottled in colour, sometimes
greyish brown; legs with tibial spur formula 0-2-4, hind with raised scales, sometimes iridescent, hindwing grey,
tibial spurs long; ABDOMEN: smooth. brown, or white; legs with tibial spur formula 0-2-4, hind
Similar taxa: Both Lyonetiidae and Argyresthiinae are tibial spurs usually long, hind tibial spines rarely present;
similar. The easiest way to separate Bedelliidae from ABDOMEN: smooth.
these taxa is by the forewing pattern. Superficially they Similar taxa: Ethmiinae, Oecophoridae, and Gelechiinae
are similar to Coleophoridae, but can be separated by the are most easily separated by forewing pattern. Phycitinae
naked proboscis, drooping labial palps, and lack of spine can be separated by forewing pattern as well, and typically
patches on top of the abdomen. have the antennae tucked straight backwards, whereas in
Taxonomic references: Powell & Opler 2009 Stenomatinae the antennae usually point forwards or out
to the sides.
Lyonetiidae (Fig. 100) Taxonomic references: Duckworth 1964 (Antaeotricha,
Superfamily: Yponomeutoidea Gonioterma)
Number of Canadian species: 6 spp., across Canada.
Genera: Leucoptera, Lyonetia, Paraleucoptera, Elachistidae, Ethmiinae (Fig. 102)
Proleucoptera Superfamily: Gelechioidea
Abundance: rare to locally uncommon, most come to light. Number of Canadian species: 7 spp., across southern
Quick recognition: The naked proboscis, roughly scaled Canada.
vertex, lack of ocelli, expanded antennal base, and drooping Genera: Ethmia, Pyramidobela
labial palps will help identify the family. Abundance: uncommon to common at light.
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; Quick recognition: Scaled proboscis, elongate squared
head scales usually rough on the vertex, smooth on the forewings, broader hindwings, large size, in Ethmia the
frons; proboscis present; labial palps descending, usually forewing is boldly patterned with black and grey or white,
short, slender; antenna filiform, with two scale rows per and has a brightly coloured (often with yellow) abdomen;

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in Pyramidobela the forewing pattern is mostly brown by forewing pattern. Phycitinae tends to have much
with prominent raised scales. They are easy to identify narrower forewings relative to the broad hindwings and
to species. the antennae typically rest tightly backwards. Crambidae
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; head usually have a more triangular forewing and a very different
scales at least partially smooth on the vertex, smooth on forewing pattern.
the frons; proboscis scaled; labial palps usually ascending, Taxonomic references: Hodges 1974; Clarke 1941
long, usually slender; antenna filiform, with one or two
scale rows per segment, rarely with prominent sensillae, Elachistidae, Elachistinae (Fig. 104)
variable in length but usually around half the forewing Superfamily: Gelechioidea
length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing elongate Number of Canadian species: At least 53 spp., throughout
and squared to rounded, hindwing broader; forewing Canada, more probably undescribed.
usually boldly patterned with black and white or grey, Genera: Elachista, Perittia
the black spots often as a broad streak along the inner Abundance: uncommon to common, many come to light.
margin and often as elongate spots, sometimes mostly Quick recognition: Scaled proboscis, curved labial palps,
brownish with raised scales, hindwing usually grey; legs smooth head scaling, small size, relatively stubby lanceolate
with tibial spur formula 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs variable in wings. Most require dissection for specific identification.
length, hind tarsal spines present, though may be difficult Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent;
to see; ABDOMEN: smooth, boldly patterned or brightly head scales smooth; proboscis scaled; labial palps usually
coloured in most species. ascending, long, slender; antenna filiform, with two scale
Similar taxa: The combination of size, forewing pattern, rows per segment, longer than half the forewing length.
boldly coloured abdomen, and scaled proboscis will THORAX: wings heteroneurous, lanceolate; forewing
separate Ethmia from all others. The combination of size, variable in pattern and colour, hindwing usually grey;
forewing pattern, raised scales on the forewing, and scaled legs with tibial spur formula 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs long.
proboscis will separate Pyramidobela from all others. ABDOMEN: smooth.
Taxonomic references: Powell 1973 Similar taxa: Many other Gelechioidea like Oecophoridae,
Batrachedridae, Coleophoridae, Cosmopterigidae, and
Elachistidae, Depressariinae (Fig. 103) Gelechiinae can look very similar. They can be tricky to
Superfamily: Gelechioidea separate externally, but Elachistinae tend to have stouter
Number of Canadian species: 49 spp., throughout Canada. looking wings.
Genera: Agonopterix, Bibarrambla, Depressaria, Taxonomic references: Kaila 1995b; 1996; 1997; 1999
Depressariodes, Nites, Semioscopis
Abundance: common at light or hibernating under bark Elachistidae, Agonoxeninae (Fig. 105)
Quick recognition: Scaled proboscis, usually squared
forewings, overall flattened body, most species common Superfamily: Gelechioidea
from fall to spring. Some are easy to identify to species
by forewing pattern, others require dissection, especially Number of Canadian species: At least 3 spp., across
in the west. southern Canada.
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present or absent; chaetosemata
absent; head scales rough on vertex, smooth on frons; Genera: Blastodacna, Chrysoclista
proboscis scaled; labial palps curved up and back over
the head, long, usually slender, sometimes tufted; antenna Abundance: rare to locally common, diurnal or at light.
filiform, with two scale rows per segment, usually around
Quick recognition: Scaled proboscis, long labial palps,
half the forewing length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous,
smooth head scaling, raised scales on forewing. Fairly
forewing squared, sometimes acutely pointed, hindwing
easy to identify to species in the east using a reference
broad; forewing variable in pattern, usually brown or grey,
collection, in the west there may be undescribed species.
hindwing usually grey; legs with tibial spur formula 0-2-4,
hind tibial spurs variable in length, hind tarsal spines often Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent;
present; ABDOMEN: smooth. head scales smooth, rarely roughened on vertex; proboscis
Similar taxa: Superficially depressariines are similar to scaled; labial palps ascending or porrect, long, slender;
some tortricids in the tribe Tortricini, but can be easily antenna filiform, with two scale rows per segment,
separated by the scaled proboscis and recurved labial palps. longer than half the forewing length. THORAX: wings
Amphisbatidae are also flattened but can be separated by heteroneurous, lanceolate; forewing with tufts of raised
forewing pattern. Oecophoridae and Ethmiinae usually scales, either greyish or black with a large orange blotch
have a narrower forewing, otherwise they can be separated and silvery spots, hindwing usually grey; legs with

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tibial spur formula 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs usually long. in females; hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: with
ABDOMEN: smooth. some rough scales.
Similar taxa: Females can be separated from other apterous
Similar taxa: A few other Gelechioidea like Momphinae, moths by the scaled proboscis. Males can be separated
Cosmopterigidae, and Gelechiinae can look similar. These from all others by the combination of scaled proboscis,
are best separated by forewing pattern. ocelli, and forewing pattern.
Taxonomic references: Hodges 1974
Taxonomic references: Blastodacna curvilineella is in
Forbes 1923, Chrysoclista lineella is in Covell 1984 Glyphidoceridae (Fig. 109)
Superfamily: Gelechioidea
Xyloryctidae, Scythridinae (Fig. 106) Number of Canadian species: 3 spp., across southern
Superfamily: Gelechioidea Canada.
Number of Canadian species: At least 13 spp., throughout Genera: Glyphidocera
Canada, many undescribed. Abundance: rare, comes to light
Genera: Landryia, Rhamphura, Scythris Quick recognition: Scaled proboscis, elongate squared
Abundance: rare to uncommon, usually diurnal. forewings with broader hindwings, somewhat difficult to
Quick recognition: Scaled proboscis, long labial palps, instantly separate from other similar looking Gelechioidea.
usually drably patterned, teardrop-shaped with antennae Identification to species is fairly easy from a reference
pointed in a V at rest. Many require dissection for specific collection, but the near lack of literature makes it difficult.
identification, though many species are undescribed. Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent;
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present or absent; chaetosemata head scales somewhat rough or smooth on vertex, smooth
absent; head scales smooth, sometimes roughened; on the frons; proboscis scaled; labial palps upcurved,
proboscis scaled; labial palps ascending or porrect, long, slender; antenna filiform, with two scale rows per
long, slender; antenna filiform, with two scale rows per segment, usually longer than half the forewing length.
segment, usually longer than half the forewing length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing elongate and
THORAX: wings heteroneurous, lanceolate; forewing squared, hindwing broader; forewing typically brownish,
variably patterned though usually subdued, hindwing sometimes with spots, hindwing brownish; legs with tibial
usually greyish; legs with tibial spur formula 0-2-4, hind spur formula 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs variable in length;
tibial spurs short. ABDOMEN: smooth. hind tarsal spines rarely present. ABDOMEN: smooth.
Similar taxa: A few other Gelechioidea like Gelechiinae Similar taxa: Similar to Blastobasinae, Depressariinae,
and Oecophoridae can look similar and can usually be and Oecophoridae from which it usually can be separated
separated by having a broader hindwing. by forewing pattern. Gelechiidae usually have a narrower
Taxonomic references: Landry 1991 hindwing that often has a distinctly projected apex. Several
Pyralidae will key out with it and they can be separated
Chimabachidae (Fig. 107, 108) by the antennae tucking tightly back over the body and by
Superfamily: Gelechioidea the wing shape and pattern.
Number of Canadian species: A single introduced species Taxonomic references: Adamski 2000 (western sp.)
Dasystoma salicella has been found in southern BC.
Genera: Dasystoma Oecophoridae (Fig. 110)
Abundance: rarely collected due to its limited distribution
and early spring adult emergence. Superfamily: Gelechioidea
Quick recognition: Scaled proboscis, broad greyish brown
forewing with two indistinct bands in the male, wingless Number of Canadian species: 18 species across Canada.
female.
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent; Genera: Batia, Brymblia, Carcina, Carolana, Coelopoeta,
head scales somewhat rough, smooth on the frons in males; Decantha, Denisia, Eido, Endrosis, Epicallima, Fabiola,
proboscis scaled; labial palps porrect, slightly ascending Hofmannophila, Mathildana, Oecophora, Pleurota, Polix,
in females, long, tufted; antenna filiform, with two scale Stathmopoda
rows per segment, longer than half the forewing length
and with prominent sensillae in males. THORAX: wings Abundance: uncommon to common, most come to light.
heteroneurous, broad, forewing somewhat pointed, females
Quick recognition: Scaled proboscis, large recurved labial
brachypterous; forewing greyish brown with two dark
palps, no ocelli, often boldly patterned. Identification to
partial bands, hindwing greyish brown; legs with tibial
species is usually easy.
spur formula 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs long in males, short

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Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; when alive, they typically hold their antennae forward and
head scales smooth, sometimes rough on vertex; proboscis together. Identification to species is very difficult for most
scaled; labial palps recurved, long, slender, rarely tufted; due to a large number of undescribed species and scarcity
antenna filiform, with two scale rows per segment, of literature.
usually longer than half the forewing length, sensillae Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent;
often prominent. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, usually head scales smooth; proboscis scaled; labial palps usually
lanceolate, sometimes more rounded in larger species; ascending or porrect, long, slender, rarely tufted; antenna
forewing highly variable in pattern and colour, often with filiform, with two scale rows per segment, longer than
bold patterns and bright colours, hindwing usually grey, half the forewing length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous,
brown, or white; legs with tibial spur formula 0-2-4, hind slender lanceolate; forewing variable in colour and pattern,
tibial spurs usually long; hind tarsal spines rarely present. often unicolourous, hindwing usually grey; legs with tibial
ABDOMEN: smooth. spur formula 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs variable in length.
ABDOMEN: smooth, segments 1 or 2-7 each with paired
Similar taxa: Depressariinae, Xyloryctidae, Coleophoridae, dorsal patches of spiniform scales that appear dark or
and Gelechiidae can be similar and are best separated by golden and contrast markedly with surrounding pigmented
forewing pattern. scales.
Similar taxa: Various Gelechioidea, including other
Taxonomic references: Hodges 1974 (all except Coleophoridae and Cosmopterigidae, can be similar and
Coelopoeta, Oecophora, Stathmopoda); Kaila 1995a can be separated by the dorsal abdominal patches of spines.
(Coelopoeta) Taxonomic references: Landry & Wright 1993 (metallic
green spp.); Landry 1998a (some spp.)
Batrachedridae (Fig. 111)
Superfamily: Gelechioidea Coleophoridae, Momphinae (Fig. 113)
Number of Canadian species: 3 species across Canada. Superfamily: Gelechioidea
Genera: Batrachedra, Duospina Number of Canadian species: well over 15 species
Abundance: rare to uncommon, at light. throughout Canada, many undescribed.
Quick recognition: Scaled proboscis, large recurved labial Genera: Mompha
palps, no ocelli, slender wings, hindwing more slender Abundance: rare to uncommon, only a few regularly come
than forewing, very similar to several other gelechioids. to light, others active in early morning.
Identification to species is fairly easy, but several require Quick recognition: Scaled proboscis, large recurved labial
dissection. palps, no ocelli, smoothly scaled head, wing may be boldly
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; patterned, metallic, or tufted. Identification to species is
head scales smooth; proboscis scaled; labial palps recurved, very difficult for some due to a large number of undescribed
long, slender; antenna filiform, with two scale rows per species and scarcity of literature.
segment, longer than half the forewing length. THORAX: Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; head
wings heteroneurous, slender lanceolate; forewing either scales smooth; proboscis scaled; labial palps ascending,
greyish or yellowish, sometimes with distinctive ovate long, slender, sometimes tufted; antenna filiform, with
dark spots, hindwing usually greyish; legs with tibial spur one or two scale rows per segment, longer than half
formula 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs usually long. ABDOMEN: the forewing length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous,
smooth. lanceolate; forewing variable in colour and pattern,
Similar taxa: Oecophoridae, Coleophoridae, often boldly patterned or metallic, often with raised
Cosmopterigidae, and Gelechiidae can be similar and are scale tufts, hindwing usually grey or brown; legs with
best separated by forewing pattern. tibial spur formula 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs usually short.
Taxonomic references: Hodges 1966a ABDOMEN: smooth, segments 1-6 with scattered, golden
non-pigmented, spiniform scales.
Coleophoridae, Coleophorinae (Fig. 112) Similar taxa: Various Gelechioidea, including other
Superfamily: Gelechioidea Coleophoridae, Elachistinae, Agonoxeninae, Oecophoridae,
Number of Canadian species: well over 75 species Batrachedridae, Cosmopterigidae, and Gelechiinae can be
throughout Canada, many undescribed. similar and are best separated by forewing pattern.
Genera: Coleophora Taxonomic references: Forbes 1923 (a few spp.)
Abundance: common, at lights or diurnal.
Quick recognition: Scaled proboscis, large labial palps, Coleophoridae, Blastobasinae (Fig. 114)
no ocelli, smoothly scaled head, slender wings, paired Superfamily: Gelechioidea
elongate patches of spines dorsally on abdominal segments; Number of Canadian species: over 10 species throughout

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Canada, many undescribed. genera are easy to separate by forewing pattern, but some
Genera: Asaphocrita, Blastobasis, Calosima, Holcocera, may require dissection for positive identification.
Hypatopa, Pigritia Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent, rarely present;
Abundance: uncommon, at light. chaetosemata absent; head scales smooth, sometimes rough
Quick recognition: Scaled proboscis, large ascending on vertex; proboscis scaled; labial palps ascending, long,
labial palps, no ocelli, smoothly scaled head, forewing slender; antenna filiform, with two scale rows per segment,
usually greyish, spines usually present on the tarsi. In live longer than half the forewing length. THORAX: wings
specimens, they rest with the forewing apices separated heteroneurous, lanceolate; forewing light brown with dark
forming a ‘V’-shaped end to the abdomen. Identification to brown in the basal, postmedial, and terminal areas and
species is difficult for many, and usually require dissection. discal dot, or black with white blotches in the antemedial
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; and postmedial areas, hindwing greyish to brownish; legs
head scales smooth; proboscis scaled; labial palps usually with tibial spur formula 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs long.
ascending, usually long, slender; antenna filiform, with ABDOMEN: smooth.
two scale rows per segment, longer than half the forewing Similar taxa: Autostichids can be separated from several
length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, lanceolate to other gelechioids like Elachistidae, Scythridinae,
rounded; forewing usually grey with black and white Oecophoridae, Coleophoridae, and Gelechiidae by the
markings, hindwing usually greyish or whitish; legs with forewing pattern.
tibial spur formula 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs usually long; Taxonomic references: Clarke 1941 (Gerdana); Lee &
hind tarsal spines usually present. ABDOMEN: segments Brown 2010; Huemer 1998 (Oegoconia)
2-6 dorsally each with transverse band of unpigmented
spiniform scales. Amphisbatidae (Fig. 117)
Similar taxa: Various Gelechioidea like Oecophoridae, Superfamily: Gelechioidea
Autostichidae, and Gelechiinae can be similar and are best Number of Canadian species: At least 7 spp. from SK to
separated by forewing pattern and lack of abdominal spines. NS.
Taxonomic references: Forbes 1923 (a few spp.) Genera: Machimia, Psilocorsis
Abundance: rare to uncommon, at light
Coleophoridae, Pterolonchinae (Fig. 115) Quick recognition: Proboscis scaled, ascending labial
Superfamily: Gelechioidea palps, fairly distinctive forewing pattern. Most species
Number of Canadian species: 1 introduced species are difficult to identify.
(Pterolonche inspersa) in BC. Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent;
Genera: Pterolonche head scales usually rough on vertex, smooth on frons;
Abundance: rare proboscis scaled; labial palps ascending, long, slender;
Quick recognition: Proboscis absent, descending labial antenna filiform, with two scale rows per segment, usually
palps, forewing white with brown streaks. longer than half the forewing length. THORAX: wings
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; heteroneurous, forewing broad and squared, usually
head scales rough, sometimes smooth on frons; proboscis brownish with fine dark strigulations throughout, or straw
absent; labial palps usually descending, long, usually yellow with grey spots and lines, hindwing greyish; legs
tufted; antenna filiform, with two scale rows per segment, with tibial spur formula 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs long.
longer than half the forewing length. THORAX: wings ABDOMEN: smooth.
heteroneurous, lanceolate; forewing white with brown Similar taxa: Amphisbatids can be separated from several
streaks; legs with tibial spur formula 0-2-4, hind tibial other gelechioids like Depressariinae, Oecophoridae, and
spurs short. ABDOMEN: smooth. Dichomeridinae by the forewing pattern. Similar looking
Similar taxa: The quick recognition characters should Pyralidae can be separated by the forewing pattern and
separate it from all others. by the antennae typically being tucked tightly backwards
Taxonomic references: none along the body.
Taxonomic references: Hodges 1974
Autostichidae (Fig. 116)
Superfamily: Gelechioidea Cosmopterigidae (Fig. 118)
Number of Canadian species: 4 species across southern Superfamily: Gelechioidea
Canada Number of Canadian species: 16 species across Canada.
Genera: Gerdana, Oegoconia, Taygete Genera: Chrysopeleia, Cosmopterix, Eteobalea,
Abundance: rare to common, at light. Euclemensia, Limnaecia, Perimede, Periploca, Sorhagenia,
Quick recognition: Proboscis scaled, ascending labial palps, Stagmatophora, Stilbosis, Walshia
most genera with a fairly distinctive forewing pattern. The Abundance: uncommon, most come to light.

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Quick recognition: Proboscis scaled, ascending labial palps, Pyralidae can be separated by the often more triangular
smoothly scaled head, hind tarsal spines often present. wings, antennae held tightly backwards, and by wing
Many can be recognized by forewing pattern, others are pattern.
more difficult. Taxonomic references: Busck 1903 (some spp.); Powell
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; head & Opler 2009 (some western spp.); Forbes 1923 (some
scales smooth; proboscis scaled; labial palps ascending, eastern spp.); Lee & Brown 2008 (key to Teleiodini);
long, slender; antenna filiform, with two scale rows per Rutten & Karsholt 2004 (Bryotropha); Huemer 1988
segment, usually longer than half the forewing length. (Caryocolum); Hodges 1999 (Chionodes); Freeman
THORAX: wings heteroneurous, lanceolate, sometimes 1960 (some Coleotechnites, some Exoteleia); Freeman
very slender, forewing variable in pattern and colour, 1965 (some Coleotechnites); Sattler 1979 (Deltophora);
sometimes boldly patterned, sometimes metallic, hindwing Povolny 1967 (some Gnorimoschema, Ptycerata, some
usually greyish; legs with tibial spur formula 0-2-4, hind Scrobipalpula, Scrobipalpulopsis); Miller 2000, Povolny
tibial spurs usually long; hind tarsal spines often present. 1998, 2003 (some Gnorimoschema); Englert 1974
ABDOMEN: smooth. (Metzneria); Hodges 1966b (Prolita, Rifseria)
Similar taxa: Many other Gelechioidea like Elachistidae,
Xyloryctidae, Batrachedridae, Coleophoridae, and Gelechiidae, Dichomeridinae (Fig. 120)
Gelechiinae are similar and can be difficult to separate. Superfamily: Gelechioidea
Taxonomic references: Hodges 1978 Number of Canadian species: 30 species across Canada.
Genera: Dichomeris, Helcystogramma
Gelechiidae, Gelechiinae (Fig. 119) Abundance: uncommon, most come to light.
Superfamily: Gelechioidea Quick recognition: Proboscis scaled, ascending labial
Number of Canadian species: well over 200 species palps, smoothly scaled head, ocelli usually present, hind
throughout Canada, many undescribed. tarsal spines often present, forewing often divided into
Genera: Agnippe, Agonochaetia, Altenia, Anacampsis, longitudinal dark and light areas, hindwing often broad
Anarsia, Aroga, Bryotropha, Carpatolechia, Caryocolum, with an apical projection. Most are fairly easy to identify
Chionodes, Chrysoesthia, Coleotechnites, Deltophora, to species.
Enchrysa, Exoteleia, Filatima, Gelechia, Gnorimoschema, Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli usually present; chaetosemata
Isophrictis, Metzneria, Monochroa, Neotelphusa, absent; head scales smooth; proboscis scaled; labial palps
Phthorimaea, Prolita, Pseudotelphusa, Ptycerata, Rifseria, ascending, long, slender, second segment sometimes
Scrobipalpa, Scrobipalpula, Scrobipalpulopsis, Sitotroga, ventrally tufted contrasting with a thin third segment;
Xenolechia antenna filiform, with two scale rows per segment,
Abundance: common, most come to light. longer than half the forewing length. THORAX: wings
Quick recognition: Proboscis scaled, ascending labial palps, heteroneurous, forewing elongate and usually squared,
smoothly scaled head, hind tarsal spines usually present, sometimes rounded, sometimes with the apex acute,
hindwing often broad with an apical projection. Most are hindwing broad and typically squarish, forewing variable in
difficult to identify to species. pattern and colour, sometimes boldly patterned, hindwing
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present or absent; chaetosemata unicolourous and variable in colour; legs with tibial spur
absent; head scales smooth; proboscis scaled; labial palps formula 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs usually long; hind tarsal
ascending, long, slender, sometimes tufted; antenna spines often present. ABDOMEN: smooth.
filiform, with two scale rows per segment, longer than Similar taxa: The squarish shape of the hindwing is
half the forewing length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, fairly distinctive amongst the Gelechioidea. When the
forewing lanceolate to broad, hindwing often broad with an hindwing is more subtly squarish they can look like many
apical projection, forewing variable in pattern and colour, other gelechioids like Elachistidae, Glyphidoceridae,
sometimes boldly patterned, rarely with raised scale tufts, Oecophoridae, and Gelechiinae and can be separated by
hindwing usually greyish or brownish; legs with tibial spur forewing pattern. Pyralidae can be separated by the often
formula 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs usually long; hind tarsal more triangular forewing, antennae typically held tightly
spines usually present. ABDOMEN: smooth. back over the body, and forewing pattern.
Similar taxa: Most Gelechiinae have a distinct projection Taxonomic references: Hodges 1986
at the apex of the hindwing that is lacking in most other
Gelechioidea. When they lack this projection they can Limacodidae (Fig. 121)
look like many other gelechioids like Xyloryctidae, Superfamily: Zygaenoidea
Oecophoridae, Coleophoridae, Glyphidoceridae, Number of Canadian species: 15 across southern Canada,
and Cosmopterigidae and can be difficult to separate. most species confined to the southeast.
Dichomeridinae can be separated by forewing pattern. Genera: Apoda, Euclea, Heterogenea, Lithacodes,

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Packardia, Parasa, Prolimacodes, Tortricidia Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli large; chaetosemata present;
Abundance: common in south eastern Canada, rarer as head scales smooth, sometimes roughened on vertex;
you go north and west, at lights. proboscis prominent or reduced; labial palps ascending,
Quick recognition: Broad wings on a relatively stout, hairy variable in length, often tufted; antenna pectinate or
body, easily recognized by wing pattern. Most are easy to filiform, sometimes with long sensillae, with variable
identify to species. scaling, roughly half the forewing length. THORAX: wings
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; heteroneurous, slender and rounded, often transparent
head scales rough, sometimes smooth; proboscis small or centrally, often boldly patterned if not transparent; legs
absent; labial palps usually ascending, sometimes porrect, with tibial spur formula of 0-2-4; often with prominent
variable in length, usually slender, sometimes tufted; scale tufts, especially on hind tibiae, tibial spurs long,
antenna filiform, rarely pectinate, with many scale rows sometimes with hind tarsal spines. ABDOMEN: smooth,
per segment, usually less than half the forewing length. often boldly patterned, sometimes with a dorsal scale tuft.
THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing broad and Similar taxa: Sesiinae have an elongate club on the antenna.
usually squared, sometimes rounded, sometimes with the Taxonomic references: Eichlin & Duckworth 1988
apex acute, hindwing broad and usually rounded, forewing
variable in pattern and colour, sometimes boldly patterned, Sesiidae, Sesiinae (Fig. 124)
sometimes unicolourous, sometimes with green patterns, Superfamily: Sesioidea
hindwing unicolourous and usually brown; legs usually Number of Canadian species: 38 spp. across Canada.
densely furry, with tibial spur formula of 0-2-2 or 0-2-4, Genera: Albuna, Carmenta, Euhagena, Melitta,
hind tibial spurs often long. ABDOMEN: hairy, rarely Paranthrene, Podosesia, Sesia, Synanthedon
with a dorsal scale tuft. Abundance: uncommon to common, most diurnal, a few
Similar taxa: The quick recognition characters will easily come to light.
separate most limacodids from other Lepidoptera. Quick recognition: Very wasp-like, often with partially
Taxonomic references: Handfield 1999 translucent wings and with colourful wings and body.
Most are fairly easy to identify to species.
Zygaenidae (Fig. 122) Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli large; chaetosemata present;
Superfamily: Zygaenoidea head scales smooth, sometimes roughened on vertex,
Number of Canadian species: A single species, Harrisina rarely rough on frons; proboscis prominent; labial palps
americana can be found in southern MB and ON. usually ascending, long, usually tufted; antenna with
Genera: Harrisina an elongate club, sometimes with a slightly hooked tip,
Abundance: Rare, uncommon in southernmost ON, diurnal sometimes with long sensillae, with many scale rows
or at lights. per antennal segment, roughly half the forewing length.
Quick recognition: Unmistakeable by the jet black slender THORAX: wings heteroneurous, slender and rounded or
wings and reddish collar. acute, usually transparent centrally, often boldly patterned
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata present; if not transparent; legs with tibial spur formula of 0-2-4;
head scales smooth, though somewhat roughened on often with prominent scale tufts, especially on hind tibiae,
frons; proboscis prominent; labial palps descending, small, tibial spurs variable in length, hind tarsal spines present.
slender; antenna pectinate, with many scale rows per ABDOMEN: smooth, usually boldly patterned.
segment, about half the forewing length. THORAX: wings Similar taxa: Tinthiinae have either pectinate or filiform
heteroneurous, slender with an acute apex, both jet black antennae.
and unicolourous, hindwing slightly translucent; legs with Taxonomic references: Eichlin & Duckworth 1988 (most
no apparent tibial spurs. ABDOMEN: smooth. spp.)
Similar taxa: None.
Taxonomic references: Powell & Opler 2009 Cossidae (Fig. 125)
Superfamily: Cossoidea
Sesiidae, Tinthiinae (Fig. 123) Number of Canadian species: 6 spp. across Canada.
Superfamily: Sesioidea Genera: Acossus, Givira, Prionoxystus, Zeuzera
Number of Canadian species: 3 spp. across Canada, 2 of Abundance: uncommon to common, at light.
which are found only in AB. Quick recognition: Large, very stout, greasy-looking moths,
Genera: Pennisetia, Zenodoxus often with translucent wings, forewing pattern usually
Abundance: uncommon to rare, diurnal. consists of fine lines. Most are fairly easy to identify to
Quick recognition: Very wasp-like, often with partially species.
translucent wings and with colourful wings and body. Easy Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent;
to identify to species. head scales rough; proboscis absent or very short; labial

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palps ascending, short, usually tufted; antenna usually Quick recognition: Naked proboscis, ascending palps with
pectinate, sometimes filiform, with many scale rows per small terminal segment, forewing generally flattened,
antennal segment, less than half the forewing length. squared-off, strongly arched basally, most species found
THORAX: wings heteroneurous, broad and rounded during the colder months of the year. Some species are
or acute, usually at least slightly translucent, typically extremely variable and can be difficult to identify.
greyish with darker grey or black fine lines throughout Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata present;
the forewing, hindwings sometimes with fine darker lines, head scales usually rough on vertex and at least partially
sometimes boldly patterned; legs densely furry, tibial spurs smooth on frons; proboscis naked; labial palps typically
usually not visible, hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: ascending, usually long, usually tufted; antenna filiform,
furry and large. with two scale rows per antennal segment, usually less than
Similar taxa: There is a resemblance of some species half the forewing length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous,
to Sphingidae, though most sphingids lack a pectinate broad, forewing squared, variable in colour and pattern,
antenna, have a more prominent proboscis, and have lines typically slanted, often a V-shaped marking prominent
different wing patterns. at middle of costa, usually greyish; hindwing usually
Taxonomic references: Handfield 1999 (all but Givira) unpatterned, sometimes with fine strigulations; legs with
tibial spur formula of 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs often large.
Choreutidae (Fig. 126) ABDOMEN: smooth.
Superfamily: Choreutoidea Similar taxa: Olethreutinae and Sparganothini can be
Number of Canadian species: 17 spp. across Canada, separated by having only a single row of scales per antennal
several undescribed. segment. Other Tortricinae are best separated by the wing
Genera: Anthophila, Caloreas, Choreutis, Prochoreutis, pattern. Glyphipterigidae can be separated by the forewing
Tebenna pattern and larger ocelli. Some noctuoids are similar and
Abundance: uncommon to rare, diurnal, a few come to can be separated by forewing pattern and by the presence
light. of tympana laterally on the thorax.
Quick recognition: Micros with stout, squared wings, often Taxonomic references: Razowski 1966 (most spp.)
with metallic spots, scaled proboscis, large ocelli, live
individuals hold the wings flared outwards, often with the Tortricidae, Tortricinae, Cnephasiini (Fig. 128)
apex drooping. Some are fairly easy to identify to species, Superfamily: Tortricoidea
but others are more difficult due to a lack of literature. Number of Canadian species: 11 spp. across Canada, some
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli large; chaetosemata absent; undescribed.
head scales smooth; proboscis scaled; labial palps usually Genera: Cnephasia, Decodes, Eana
ascending, long, usually tufted; antenna filiform, usually Abundance: uncommon to rare, at lights.
with long sensillae, with two scale rows per antennal Quick recognition: Naked proboscis, ascending palps with
segment, roughly half the forewing length. THORAX: small terminal segment, generally with elongate wings that
wings heteroneurous, broad, forewing squared, variable are fairly pointed at the apex. Some species can be difficult
in colour and pattern, often with prominent lines, often to identify and may require dissection.
with metallic spots near the anal angle; hindwing usually Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata present;
unpatterned, sometimes with bold markings; legs with tibial head scales rough, sometimes partially smooth on
spur formula of 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs large. ABDOMEN: frons; proboscis naked; labial palps typically ascending,
smooth, sometimes boldly patterned. sometimes descending, usually long, usually tufted;
Similar taxa: The scaled proboscis will separate them from antenna filiform, with two scale rows per antennal segment,
Tortricidae. Pyralidae and Crambidae can be separated by variable in length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, fairly
the much smaller ocelli, frequent presence of chaetosemata, elongate, forewing with an acute apex, variable in colour
tympanum present ventrally on the first abdominal segment, and pattern, sometimes unicolourous, often with fine lines
and by wing pattern. throughout, often greyish; hindwing usually unpatterned,
Taxonomic references: Dombroskie 2003 (most eastern often greyish or white; legs with tibial spur formula of
spp.) 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs usually short, tarsal spines usually
present. ABDOMEN: smooth.
Tortricidae, Tortricinae, Tortricini (Fig. 127) Similar taxa: Olethreutinae and Sparganothini can be
Superfamily: Tortricoidea separated by having only a single row of scales per antennal
Number of Canadian species: 57 spp. across Canada, segment. Other Tortricinae are best separated by the wing
several undescribed. pattern. Some noctuoids, especially Arctiinae are similar
Genera: Acleris and can be separated by forewing pattern and by the
Abundance: common, at lights, often active in winter. presence of tympana laterally on the thorax.

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Taxonomic references: Mutuura 1982 (Cnephasia); Similar taxa: Olethreutinae and Sparganothini can be
Obraztsov 1962 (Eana); Powell 1980 (Decodes) separated by having only a single row of scales per antennal
segment. Other Tortricinae are best separated by the wing
Tortricidae, Tortricinae, Cochylini (Fig. 129) pattern. Glyphipterigidae can be separated by the forewing
Superfamily: Tortricoidea pattern and larger ocelli. Some noctuoids are similar and
Number of Canadian species: At least 56 spp. across can be separated by forewing pattern and by the presence
Canada, some undescribed. of tympana laterally on the thorax.
Genera: Aethes, Agapeta, Atroposia, Cochylidia, Cochylis, Taxonomic references: Brown & Powell 2000 (Anopina);
Gynidomorpha, Henricus, Phalonidia, Platphalonidia, Powell 1986 (Apotomops); Razowski 2002 (Eulia)
Recavicula, Saphenista, Thyralia, Trachysmia, and others
Abundance: uncommon to common, at lights. Tortricidae, Tortricinae, Sparganothini (Fig. 131)
Quick recognition: Naked proboscis, palps with small Superfamily: Tortricoidea
terminal segment, generally with stubby squared or pointed Number of Canadian species: 33 spp. across Canada, some
wings, often brightly coloured. Many species can be undescribed.
difficult to identify and many require dissection. Genera: Amorbia, Coelostathma, Platynota, Sparganothis
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata present; Abundance: common to uncommon, at lights.
head scales rough, sometimes smooth on frons; proboscis Quick recognition: Naked proboscis, palps long and
naked; labial palps variable in direction, long, usually porrect, with squared wings, often yellow or brownish.
tufted; antenna filiform, with two scale rows per antennal Usually easy to identify to species.
segment, usually with long sensillae, usually less than Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli usually present; chaetosemata
half the forewing length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, present; head scales usually rough on vertex, sometimes
variable in shape, typically stubby, variable in colour and smooth on frons; proboscis naked; labial palps usually
pattern, usually with bright colours and contrasting patterns, porrect, long, sometimes tufted; antenna filiform, with
males sometimes with costal fold; hindwing usually one scale rows per antennal segment, rarely with two scale
unpatterned, often greyish; legs with tibial spur formula of rows, with long sensillae, variable in length. THORAX:
0-2-4, hind tibial spurs usually long. ABDOMEN: smooth. wings heteroneurous, forewing squared, often yellow or
Similar taxa: Olethreutinae and Sparganothini can be brown, usually with reticulate markings, males sometimes
separated by having only a single row of scales per antennal with costal fold; hindwing usually greyish or white; legs
segment. Other Tortricinae are best separated by the wing with tibial spur formula of 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs usually
pattern. Glyphipterigidae can be separated by the forewing long. ABDOMEN: smooth.
pattern and larger ocelli. Some noctuids are similar and Similar taxa: Other Tortricinae have two scale rows per
can be separated by forewing pattern and by the presence antennal segment. Olethreutinae typically either lack porrect
of tympana laterally on the thorax. labial palps, or the palps are shorter. Glyphipterigidae can
Taxonomic references: Sabourin et al. 2002 (some Aethes); be separated by the forewing pattern and larger ocelli. Some
Razowski 1997 (most spp.) noctuoids are similar and can be separated by forewing
pattern and by the presence of tympana laterally on the
Tortricidae, Tortricinae, Euliini (Fig. 130) thorax.
Superfamily: Tortricoidea Taxonomic references: Phillips-Rodriguez & Powell 2007
Number of Canadian species: 4 spp. across Canada. (Amorbia); Lambert 1950 (most spp.)
Genera: Anopina, Apotomops, Eulia
Abundance: uncommon, some spp. at lights. Tortricidae, Tortricinae, Archipini (Fig. 132)
Quick recognition: Naked proboscis, palps ascending with Superfamily: Tortricoidea
small terminal segment, generally with squared wings, Number of Canadian species: over 80 spp. across Canada.
greyish or brownish. Easy to identify to species. Genera: Adoxophyes, Aphelia, Archepandemis, Archips,
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata present; Argyrotaenia, Choristoneura, Clepsis, Dichelia, Diedra,
head scales usually rough on vertex, somewhat smooth on Ditula, Lozotaenia, Pandemis, Syndemis, Xenotemna
frons; proboscis naked; labial palps typically ascending, Abundance: common, at lights.
variable in length, usually slender; antenna filiform, with Quick recognition: Naked proboscis, palps ascending with
two scale rows per antennal segment, usually with long small terminal segment, with squared wings, sometimes
sensillae, usually less than half the forewing length. with a sinuous costa, often brown with darker brown
THORAX: wings heteroneurous, typically squared, usually oblique bands. Often easy to identify to species.
grey and white, sometimes brownish orange; hindwing Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata present;
greyish; legs with tibial spur formula of 0-2-4, hind tibial head scales usually rough on vertex, usually smooth on
spurs variable in length. ABDOMEN: smooth. frons; proboscis naked; labial palps usually ascending,

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variable in length, sometimes tufted; antenna filiform, per antennal segment, less than half the forewing length.
with two scale rows per antennal segment, with long THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing squared, usually
sensillae, less than half the forewing length. THORAX: with a complex pattern, grey brown and white; hindwing
wings heteroneurous, forewing squared, often brown with greyish; legs with tibial spur formula of 0-2-4, hind tibial
darker brown bands, males sometimes with a costal fold; spurs long, hind tarsal spines rarely present. ABDOMEN:
hindwing usually greyish or white; legs with tibial spur smooth.
formula of 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs variable in length, hind Similar taxa: The single row of scales per antennal segment
tarsal spines often present. ABDOMEN: smooth. will separate Endotheniini from similar looking Tortricinae.
Similar taxa: Olethreutinae and Sparganothini can be It is difficult to separate them from other Olethreutinae and
separated by having only a single row of scales per antennal best done by wing pattern or by dissection.
segment. Other Tortricinae are best separated by the wing Taxonomic references: Gilligan et al. 2008 (most spp.)
pattern. Glyphipterigidae can be separated by the forewing
pattern and larger ocelli. Some noctuoids are similar and Tortricidae, Olethreutinae, Bactrini (Fig. 135)
can be separated by forewing pattern and by the presence Superfamily: Tortricoidea
of tympana laterally on the thorax. Number of Canadian species: 6 spp. across Canada
Taxonomic references: Mutuura 1978 (Archepandemis); Genera: Bactra
Razowski 1977 (Archips); Razowski 1979a, 1979b (most Abundance: uncommon to rare, at lights.
Clepsis); Mutuura 1980 (some Pandemis); Freeman 1958 Quick recognition: Naked proboscis, elongate wings,
(most spp.) forewing apex somewhat acute, usually streaked, labial
palps descending. Most species require dissection for
Tortricidae, Chlidanotinae (Fig. 133) positive identification.
Superfamily: Tortricoidea Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata present;
Number of Canadian species: a single species head scales usually rough on vertex, often smooth on
Thaumatographa youngiella is known from S. BC frons; proboscis naked, rarely reduced; labial palps usually
Genera: Thaumatographa descending, variable in length, tufted; antenna filiform,
Abundance: rare, at lights. with one scale row per antennal segment, greater than
Quick recognition: Naked proboscis, with squared wings, half the forewing length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous,
distinct complex forewing pattern. forewing elongate, apex somewhat acute, sometimes with
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata present; a complex pattern, often streaked, usually brownish;
head scales smooth, rarely roughened on vertex; proboscis hindwing greyish; legs with tibial spur formula of 0-2-4,
naked; labial palps ascending or porrect, long, slender; hind tibial spurs long. ABDOMEN: smooth.
antenna filiform, with one scale row per antennal segment, Similar taxa: The single row of scales per antennal segment
with long sensillae, less than half the forewing length. will separate Bactrini from similar looking Tortricinae. It
THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing squared, brown is difficult to separate them from other Olethreutinae and
with many fine white lines, prominent black spots at anal best done by wing pattern or by dissection.
angle; hindwing brown; legs with tibial spur formula of Taxonomic references: Heinrich 1926; Gilligan et al. 2008
0-2-4, hind tibial spurs long. ABDOMEN: smooth. (some spp.)
Similar taxa: The forewing pattern is distinctive, only
a few Olethreutinae and Glyphipterigidae have vaguely Tortricidae, Olethreutinae, Olethreutini (Fig. 136)
similar patterns. Superfamily: Tortricoidea
Taxonomic references: None Number of Canadian species: over 109 spp. across Canada,
most diverse in the East, some undescribed
Tortricidae, Olethreutinae, Endotheniini (Fig. 134) Genera: Ahmosia, Apotomis, Argyroploce, Aterpia, Celypha,
Superfamily: Tortricoidea Episimus, Eumarozia, Evora, Hedya, Metendothenia,
Number of Canadian species: 10 spp. across Canada Olethreutes, Orthotaenia, Paralobesia, Phaecasiophora,
Genera: Endothenia, Hulda, Taniva, Tia Pristerognatha, Pseudosciaphila, Zomaria
Abundance: uncommon, at lights. Abundance: common, at lights.
Quick recognition: Naked proboscis, squared wings, labial Quick recognition: Naked proboscis, stout squared wings,
palps with tiny third segment. Species are generally easy labial palps usually ascending with small terminal segment,
to identify but may require dissection. forewing pattern usually banded grey and white or dark and
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata present; light brown. Many species require dissection for positive
head scales usually rough on vertex, usually smooth identification, some genera are difficult.
on frons; proboscis naked; labial palps usually porrect, Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata present;
usually short, tufted; antenna filiform, with one scale row head scales rough on vertex, often smooth on frons;

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proboscis naked, rarely reduced; labial palps usually Rhyacionia, Sonia, Spilonota, Suleima, Zeiraphera
ascending, usually stout, usually tufted; antenna filiform, Abundance: common, at lights.
with one scale row per antennal segment, usually less than Quick recognition: Naked proboscis, forewing usually
half the forewing length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, elongate, labial palps with small terminal segment. Some
forewing stout, squared, sometimes with a complex pattern, are relatively easy to identify, most require dissection,
usually banded with grey and white or with dark and light some groups are very difficult.
grey; hindwing grey brown or white; legs with tibial spur Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata present;
formula of 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs long. ABDOMEN: head scales rough, often smooth on the frons; proboscis
smooth. naked, rarely reduced; labial palps variable in direction,
Similar taxa: The single row of scales per antennal segment often short, usually tufted; antenna filiform, with one scale
will separate Olethreutini from similar looking Tortricinae. row per antennal segment, variable in length. THORAX:
They can usually be separated from other Olethreutinae wings heteroneurous, forewing usually elongate, squared
by wing pattern. or acute, rarely falcate, pattern variable, often with metallic
Taxonomic references: Adamski & Peters 1986 (Apotomis); markings especially towards anal angle, males sometimes
Miller 1985, Jalava & Miller 1998 (some Olethreutes); with a costal fold; hindwing usually greyish; legs with tibial
Heinrich 1926 (most spp.); Gilligan et al. 2008, Miller spur formula of 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs usually long, rarely
1987 (many spp.) with tarsal spines. ABDOMEN: smooth.
Similar taxa: The single row of scales per antennal segment
Tortricidae, Olethreutinae, Enarmoniini (Fig. 137) will separate Eucosmiini from similar looking Tortricinae.
Superfamily: Tortricoidea They can often be separated from other Olethreutinae by
Number of Canadian species: 39 spp. across Canada wing pattern.
Genera: Ancylis, Enarmonia, Eucosmomorpha, Taxonomic references: Brown 1992 (Catastega); Wright
Hystrichophora 2002 (some Epiblema); Brown 1980 (some Epinotia);
Abundance: common, at lights. Miller 1974, Powell 1968 (some Eucosma); Wright
Quick recognition: Naked proboscis, forewing usually 2005, 2006, 2007a, 2007b, 2008 (some Eucosma and
with a falcate tip and often boldly patterned, labial palps Pelochrista); McDunnough 1938a (some Phaneta); Miller
with small terminal segment. Many are easy to identify to 1986 (Pseudexentera); Powell & Miller 1978 (Rhyacionia);
species by wing pattern, others are much more difficult, Mutuura & Freeman 1966 (Zeiraphera); Heinrich 1923a
even with dissection. (most spp.); Gilligan et al. 2008, Miller 1987, Powell &
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata present; Opler 2009, Heinrich 1923b, 1924, 1929, McDunnough
head scales usually rough; proboscis naked, rarely 1925, 1935, 1942 (some spp.)
reduced; labial palps porrect or descending, fairly long,
usually tufted; antenna filiform, with one scale row per Tortricidae, Olethreutinae, Grapholitini (Fig. 138)
antennal segment, usually less than half the forewing Superfamily: Tortricoidea
length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing stout Number of Canadian species: 65 spp. across Canada
to slightly elongate, usually with a falcate tip, sometimes Genera: Corticivora, Cydia, Dichrorampha, Grapholita,
squared, usually with a bold complex pattern; hindwing Ecdytolopha, Gymnandrosoma, Pammene, Pseudogalleria,
greyish; legs with tibial spur formula of 0-2-4, hind tibial Sereda
spurs long, rarely with tarsal spines. ABDOMEN: smooth. Abundance: uncommon to common, at lights.
Similar taxa: The single row of scales per antennal segment Quick recognition: Naked proboscis, forewing stout,
will separate Enarmoniini from similar looking Tortricinae. either squared or acute, labial palps with small terminal
They can usually be separated from other Olethreutinae segment. Some are relatively easy to identify, most require
by wing pattern. dissection, some groups are very difficult.
Taxonomic references: Heinrich 1923a (most spp.); Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli usually present; chaetosemata
Gilligan et al. 2008, Miller 1987, McDunnough 1955 present; head scales usually rough; proboscis naked, rarely
(some spp.) reduced; labial palps variable in direction, short, usually
tufted; antenna filiform, with one scale row per antennal
Tortricidae, Olethreutinae, Eucosmini (Fig. 138) segment, variable in length. THORAX: sometimes with
Superfamily: Tortricoidea a scale tuft; wings heteroneurous, forewing usually stout,
Number of Canadian species: over 308 spp. across Canada, squared or acute, pattern variable, usually dark, often with
most diverse in the West, many undescribed metallic markings; hindwing greyish brown or white; legs
Genera: Barbara, Catastega, Epiblema, Epinotia, Eucosma, with tibial spur formula of 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs long,
Gretchena, Griselda, Gypsonoma, Notocelia, Pelochrista, rarely with tarsal spines. ABDOMEN: smooth, rarely with
Phaneta, Proteoteras, Pseudexentera, Retinia, Rhopobota, a dorsal scale tuft.

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Similar taxa: The single row of scales per antennal segment Epermeniidae (Fig. 142)
will separate Grapholitini from similar looking Tortricinae. Superfamily: Epermenioidea
They can often be separated from other Olethreutinae by Number of Canadian species: 7 spp. across Canada
wing pattern. Genera: Epermenia, Ochromolopis
Taxonomic references: Brown 1984 (Corticivora); Heinrich Abundance: rare, at lights
1926 (most spp.); Gilligan et al. 2008, Miller 1987, Powell Quick recognition: Naked proboscis, smoothly scaled head,
& Opler 2009, McDunnough 1935 (some spp.) no ocelli, forewing slender, usually with some raised scales
along the inner margin, hind tibia and tarsi with spines.
Urodidae (Fig. 140) Some species are fairly easy to recognize by forewing
Superfamily: Urodoidea pattern, others need dissection.
Number of Canadian species: 1 sp. (Wockia asperipunctella) Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent;
found sporadically across Canada head scales smooth; proboscis naked, sometimes reduced;
Genera: Wockia labial palps usually ascending, long, slender; antenna
Abundance: rare, does not frequent lights filiform, with one or two scale rows per antennal segment,
Quick recognition: Naked proboscis, forewing elongate greater than half the forewing length. THORAX: wings
and pointed, grey with a darker grey patch of scales in heteroneurous, forewing slender, pointed, usually with
the antemedial area. raised scales along the inner margin, pattern variable,
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; greyish; hindwing grey; legs with tibial spur formula
head scales rough on vertex, smooth on frons; proboscis of 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs often long, hind tibial spines
naked; labial palps porrect, short, slender; antenna filiform, present, hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: smooth,
with two scale rows per antennal segment, about half rarely boldly patterned.
the forewing length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, Similar taxa: The quick recognition characters will separate
forewing elongate, pointed, grey, with a dark grey patch Epermeniidae from all others.
of raised scales in the antemedial area; hindwing grey; legs Taxonomic references: Gaedike 2008
with tibial spur formula of 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs long.
ABDOMEN: smooth. Alucitidae (Fig. 143)
Similar taxa: The quick recognition characters will separate Superfamily: Alucitoidea
Urodidae from all others. Number of Canadian species: 3 spp. across Canada
Taxonomic references: Landry 1998b Genera: Alucita
Abundance: common, rarer as you go east, at lights or
Schreckensteiniidae (Fig. 141) flushed during the day
Superfamily: Schreckensteinioidea Quick recognition: Each wing is divided into six plumes
Number of Canadian species: 2 spp. found sporadically and is banded light and dark grey. For specific identification
across Canada dissection is usually necessary.
Genera: Schreckensteinia Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent;
Abundance: rare, not usually at lights head scales usually rough on vertex, smooth on frons;
Quick recognition: Naked proboscis, forewing slender, hind proboscis naked; labial palps ascending, long, tufted;
tibia with spines and huge spurs, in live specimens hind antenna filiform, with one scale row per antennal segment,
legs held out sideways at rest. The two species are usually greater than half the forewing length. THORAX: wings
easy to separate, though dissection is often necessary on heteroneurous, divided into six plumes, banded light and
worn specimens. dark grey or brown; legs with tibial spur formula of 0-2-4,
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; hind tibial spurs long. ABDOMEN: smooth.
head scales smooth; proboscis naked; labial palps porrect, Similar taxa: Pterophoridae have the forewing notched
variable in length, slender; antenna filiform, with two scale and the hindwing divided into three plumes.
rows per antennal segment, about half the forewing length. Taxonomic references: Landry & Landry 2004
THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing slender, pointed,
brownish, often with streaky markings; hindwing grey or Pterophoridae (Fig. 144)
brown; legs with tibial spur formula of 0-2-4, hind tibial Superfamily: Pterophoroidea
spurs very long, hind tibial spines present. ABDOMEN: Number of Canadian species: 65 spp. across Canada, most
smooth. diverse in the west
Similar taxa: The quick recognition characters will separate Genera: Adaina, Amblyptilia, Capperia, Cnaemidophora,
Schreckensteiniidae from all others. Dejongia, Emmelina, Geina, Gillmeria, Hellinsia,
Taxonomic references: Forbes 1923 Oidaematophorus, Oxyptilus, Paraplatyptilia, Platyptilia,
Spenarches, Stenoptilia, Trichoptilus

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Abundance: common, at lights Quick recognition: Naked proboscis, no ocelli, with raised
Quick recognition: The forewing is notched and the scales on the forewing, reniform spot prominent. The
hindwing is divided into three plumes, abdomen and legs species are usually easy to separate.
are very long, live specimens hold the wings out to the sides Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; head
in a T-shape. Specific identification is often challenging. scales usually smooth; proboscis naked; labial palps usually
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; ascending, usually long, usually slender; antenna filiform,
head scales usually smooth; proboscis naked; labial palps with two scale rows per antennal segment, sometimes with
usually ascending, often short, usually slender; antenna prominent sensillae, longer than half the forewing length.
filiform, with two scale rows per antennal segment, usually THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing fairly broad,
with long sensillae, usually less than half the forewing apex pointed, pattern variable, with a prominent reniform
length. THORAX: rarely with a dorsal scale tuft; wings spot, greyish, sometimes with metallic markings, with
heteroneurous, forewing notched, usually with prominent raised scales, hindwing broad, usually greyish; legs with
lines in the postmedial area, typically brownish or white, tibial spur formula of 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs variable in
hindwing divided into three plumes, sometimes boldly length. ABDOMEN: smooth.
patterned; legs with tibial spur formula of 0-2-4, very Similar taxa: Copromorphidae lack a prominent reniform
long, hind tibial spurs short relative to the elongate legs. spot. Sparganothini can be separated by forewing pattern.
ABDOMEN: smooth, long, sometimes boldly patterned Lithosiini can be separated by forewing pattern and by the
with chevrons. presence of tympana on the metathorax.
Similar taxa: Alucitidae have each wing divided by six Taxonomic references: Davis 1968
plumes.
Pyralidae, Galleriinae (Fig. 147)
Taxonomic references: Cashatt 1972 (some Hellinsia);
Superfamily: Pyraloidea
Lange 1950; Landry & Gielis 2008 (some Paraplatyptilia);
Number of Canadian species: 7 spp. sporadically across
Barnes & Lindsey 1921 (most spp.); Landry 1987;
Canada
McDunnough 1923, 1927, 1938b, 1939 (some spp.)
Genera: Achroia, Aphomia, Cacotherapia, Corcyra,
Galleria, Paralipsa
Copromorphidae (Fig. 145)
Abundance: rare to locally common, at lights, some species
Superfamily: Copromorphoidea
associated with bee hives
Number of Canadian species: 2 spp. in BC and SW AB
Quick recognition: Reduced scaled proboscis, no ocelli,
Genera: Ellabella, Lotisma
typically greyish, sometimes quite large. The species are
Abundance: rare to uncommon, at lights
fairly easy to separate.
Quick recognition: Naked proboscis, no ocelli, often with
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent;
raised scales on the forewing. The two species are easy
head scales smooth, sometimes rough on frons; proboscis
to separate.
scaled, reduced; labial palps variable in orientation, usually
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; head
small, usually slender; antenna filiform, with two scale
scales smooth, sometimes partially roughened; proboscis
rows per antennal segment, usually shorter than half the
naked; labial palps usually ascending, variable in length,
forewing length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing
slender; antenna filiform, with two scale rows per antennal
variable, apex rounded or squared, sometimes notched in
segment, roughly half the forewing length. THORAX:
middle of outer margin, pattern variable, greyish, hindwing
wings heteroneurous, forewing fairly broad, apex pointed,
broad, greyish; legs with tibial spur formula of 0-2-4, hind
pattern variable, greyish, hindwing broad, greyish; legs
tibial spurs variable in length; hind tarsal spines often
with tibial spur formula of 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs variable
present. ABDOMEN: smooth, with paired tympanal organs
in length. ABDOMEN: smooth.
ventrally on the first abdominal segment.
Similar taxa: Carposinidae typically have a prominent
Similar taxa: Phycitinae are quite variable and can look
reniform spot on the forewing. Lithosiini and Hypenodinae
similar, but usually have a much broader hindwing
can be also separated by forewing pattern and by the
compared to the forewing. To separate these two it is best
presence of tympana on the metathorax.
to eliminate the few galleriines by forewing pattern.
Taxonomic references: Heppner 1984 (Ellabella); Heppner
Taxonomic references: Solis & Metz 2008 (Aphomia,
1986 (Lotisma)
Paralipsa); Powell & Opler 2009 (Achroia, Galleria)
Carposinidae (Fig. 146)
Pyralidae, Chrysauginae (Fig. 148)
Superfamily: Copromorphoidea
Superfamily: Pyraloidea
Number of Canadian species: 4 spp. across Canada
Number of Canadian species: 7 spp. sporadically across
Genera: Bondia, Carposina
Canada, most spp. restricted to SE Canada
Abundance: uncommon, at lights

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Genera: Acallis, Arta, Condylolomia, Galasa, Tosale Taxonomic references: Powell & Opler 2009, Covell 1984
Abundance: uncommon, at lights (some spp.)
Quick recognition: Scaled proboscis, ocelli usually
prominent, often boldly patterned, forewing sometimes Pyralidae, Epipaschiinae (Fig. 150)
with a large excavation in costa, legs often with large Superfamily: Pyraloidea
scale tufts, live specimens rest with body elevated and Number of Canadian species: 15 spp. across Canada
legs prominent. The species are fairly easy to separate. Genera: Epipaschia, Macalla, Oneida, Pococera,
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli usually present; chaetosemata Toripalpus
usually present; head scales usually rough on vertex, Abundance: uncommon, at lights
usually smooth on frons; proboscis scaled; labial palps Quick recognition: Scaled proboscis, ocelli present, labial
variable in orientation, usually small, usually slender; palps prominent and curved upwards, forewing typically
antenna filiform, with long sensillae, with two scale rows greyish with distinct AM and PM lines, forewing with
per antennal segment, variable in length. THORAX: wings raised scales usually present. They can be tricky to identify
heteroneurous, forewing usually boldly patterned, apex to species.
squared, sometimes excavated in middle of costa, pattern Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata usually
usually bold, usually brownish, hindwing broad, variable present; head scales rough on vertex, usually smooth
in colour, sometimes boldly patterned; legs with tibial spur on frons; proboscis scaled; labial palps ascending,
formula of 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs usually short, legs often long, slender; antenna filiform, sometimes with bizarre
with distinct scale tufts. ABDOMEN: smooth, with paired ornamentation, usually with long sensillae, with two scale
tympanal organs ventrally on the first abdominal segment. rows per antennal segment, usually less than half forewing
Similar taxa: Chrysauginae can be similar to Phycitinae length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing usually
and many Crambidae subfamilies, but can be separated with prominent AM and PM lines, apex squared, greyish,
by forewing pattern. hindwing broad, greyish; legs with tibial spur formula of
Taxonomic references: Cashatt 1968; Covell 1984 (some 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs short, hind tarsal spines present.
spp.) ABDOMEN: smooth, sometimes boldly patterned, with
paired tympanal organs ventrally on the first abdominal
Pyralidae, Pyralinae (Fig. 149) segment.
Superfamily: Pyraloidea Similar taxa: Epipaschiinae can be separated from
Number of Canadian species: 10 spp. across Canada Phycitinae by forewing pattern.
Genera: Aglossa, Dolichomia, Herculia, Hypsopygia, Taxonomic references: Holland & Schaus 1925
Pseudasopia, Pyralis (Epipaschia, Macalla, most Pococera, some Toripalpus);
Abundance: uncommon, at lights, often indoors Solis 1991 (Oneida); Solis 1993 (some Toripalpus)
Quick recognition: Scaled proboscis, ocelli absent,
forewing typically with distinct AM and PM lines, forewing Pyralidae, Phycitinae (Fig. 151)
often triangular in shape, live specimens sometimes curl Superfamily: Pyraloidea
abdomen upwards at rest. The species are usually easy Number of Canadian species: over 140 spp. across Canada
to separate. Genera: Acrobasis, Ambesa, Anerastia, Apomyelois,
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata usually Bandera, Cadra, Canarsia, Catastia, Caudellia,
present; head scales usually rough; proboscis scaled, Coenochroa, Cuniberta, Dasypyga, Dioryctria, Ephestia,
sometimes absent; labial palps usually ascending, usually Ephestiodes, Erelieva, Etiella, Eulogia, Eumysia,
small, usually slender; antenna filiform, rarely pectinate Eurythmia, Euzophera, Homoeosoma, Honora, Hulstia,
in males, sometimes with long sensillae, with two scale Interjectio, Lipographis, Macrorrhinia, Melitara,
rows per antennal segment, often less than half forewing Meroptera, Moodna, Myelopsis, Oreana, Ortholepis,
length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing often Peoria, Philodema, Phobus, Phycitodes, Pima, Plodia,
triangular, sometimes more elongate, forewing usually Polopeustis, Promylea, Psorosina, Pyla, Ragonotia,
boldly patterned, usually with prominent AM and PM lines, Rhagea, Rostrolaetilia, Salebriaria, Sarata, Sciota,
apex squared or pointed, often reddish or pinkish, hindwing Staudingeria, Telethusia, Trachycera, Tulsa, Vitula,
broad, usually greyish, usually boldly patterned; legs Zophodia
with tibial spur formula of 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs usually Abundance: common, at lights, some spp. diurnal
short, hind tarsal spines sometimes present. ABDOMEN: Quick recognition: Scaled proboscis, ocelli usually present,
smooth, with paired tympanal organs ventrally on the first labial palps usually fairly long and curved upwards,
abdominal segment. forewing often with distinct AM and PM lines, usually
Similar taxa: Pyralinae can be separated from Galleriinae greyish, forewing most often very narrow compared to
and others by the forewing pattern. broad hindwing, hind tarsal spines usually present. They

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are often very difficult to identify to species. short. ABDOMEN: smooth, with paired tympanal organs
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli usually present; chaetosemata ventrally on the first abdominal segment.
usually present; head scales often smooth; proboscis Similar taxa: Scopariinae are easily separated from other
scaled; labial palps usually ascending, usually long, crambids and pyralids by the characteristic forewing
usually slender; antenna filiform, sometimes with long pattern.
sensillae, with two scale rows per antennal segment, Taxonomic references: Munroe 1972a, 1973
usually less than half forewing length. THORAX: wings
heteroneurous, forewing most often very slender compared Crambidae, Crambinae, Argyriini (Fig. 153)
to the hindwing, usually with prominent AM and PM lines, Superfamily: Pyraloidea
reniform spot often present, apex usually squared, usually Number of Canadian species: 4 spp. in eastern Canada as
greyish or brownish with white markings, hindwing broad, far west as MB
greyish, brownish, or whitish; legs with tibial spur formula Genera: Argyria, Urola
of 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs short, hind tarsal spines usually Abundance: uncommon, at lights
present. ABDOMEN: smooth, rarely boldly patterned, Quick recognition: Scaled proboscis, broad squared
rarely with dorsal scale tuft, with paired tympanal organs forewing, shining white, often with a distinct slanted orange
ventrally on the first abdominal segment. or brown medial line. Easy to identify to species.
Similar taxa: Phycitinae are best separated from other Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata present;
similar pyralids and crambids by eliminating the other head scales rough, somewhat smoothened on frons;
taxa since phycitines are so polymorphic. proboscis scaled; labial palps porrect or ascending, usually
Taxonomic references: Neunzig 1986 (Acrobasis, long, relatively short compared to other Crambinae, slender;
Trachycera); Neunzig 2003 (Ambesa, Canarsia, Catastia, antenna filiform, with two scale rows per antennal segment,
Dioryctria, Interjectio, Lipographis, Meroptera, Oreana, usually less than half forewing length. THORAX: wings
Ortholepis, Philodema, Phobus, Pima, Polopeustis, heteroneurous, forewing broad, shining white, often with a
Psorosina, Pyla, Salebriaria, Sarata, Sciota, Telethusia, distinct slanted orange or brown medial line, apex squared,
Tulsa); Shaffer 1968 (Anerastia, Coenochroa, Peoria, hindwing broad, white; legs with tibial spur formula of 0-2-
Ragonotia); Neunzig 1990 (Apomyelois, Bandera, Cadra, 4, hind tibial spurs often long. ABDOMEN: smooth, with
Caudellia, Cuniberta, Ephestia, Ephestiodes, Erelieva, paired tympanal organs ventrally on the first abdominal
Eulogia, Eurythmia, Euzophera, Moodna, Myelopsis, segment.
Plodia, Vitula); Neunzig 1997 (Homoeosoma, Melitara, Similar taxa: Argyriini are easily separated from other
Phycitodes, Rhagea, Rostrolaetilia, Zophodia); Heinrich crambids and pyralids by the characteristic forewing
1956 (most spp.) pattern.
Taxonomic references: Martinez & Brown 2007
Crambidae, Scopariinae (Fig. 152)
Superfamily: Pyraloidea Crambidae, Crambinae, Crambini (Fig. 154)
Number of Canadian species: 17 spp. across Canada Superfamily: Pyraloidea
Genera: Cosipara, Eudonia, Gesneria, Scoparia Number of Canadian species: 57 spp. throughout Canada
Abundance: common, at lights Genera: Agriphila, Arequipa, Catoptria, Chrysoteuchia,
Quick recognition: Scaled proboscis, ocelli present, labial Crambus, Euchromius, Fissicrambus, Loxocrambus,
palps porrect or descending, forewing usually with distinct Microcrambus, Neodactria, Parapediasia, Pediasia,
antemedial and postmedial lines, usually with distinct Platytes, Raphiptera, Tehama, Thaumatopsis
claviform, orbicular, or reniform spots, grey with black Abundance: common to abundant, at lights, often flushed
markings. Most are fairly easy to identify to species. from grasses
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata present; Quick recognition: Scaled proboscis, very long porrect
head scales usually rough on vertex, smooth on frons; palps, elongate forewing with squared tip, usually streaky
proboscis scaled; labial palps porrect or descending, looking, often with silvery or golden streaks, broad
usually long, usually tufted; antenna filiform, sometimes hindwing. Some genera are challenging to identify to
with long sensillae, with two scale rows per antennal species.
segment, usually roughly half forewing length. THORAX: Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata present;
wings heteroneurous, forewing fairly slender, usually with head scales smooth, sometimes roughened on vertex;
prominent antemedial and postmedial lines, reniform, proboscis scaled; labial palps porrect or descending, very
orbicular, and claviform spots usually present, apex long, sometimes tufted; antenna filiform, rarely pectinate,
usually squared or rounded, greyish with black and white with two scale rows per antennal segment, usually less than
markings, hindwing broad, greyish or whitish; legs with half forewing length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous,
tibial spur formula of 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs usually forewing slender, often streaked with silver or gold, often

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with a complex pattern of lines in the subterminal area, present; head scales smooth, sometimes roughened on
usually brownish; hindwing broader, greyish brown or vertex; proboscis scaled; labial palps descending or
white; legs with tibial spur formula of 0-2-4, hind tibial porrect, long, slender; antenna filiform, with two scale
spurs short. ABDOMEN: smooth, with paired tympanal rows per antennal segment, less than half forewing length.
organs ventrally on the first abdominal segment. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing slender to very
Similar taxa: Crambini are best separated from other slender, apex either acute or falcate, boldly patterned or
crambids and pyralids by the forewing pattern. subdued, brownish, sometimes with metallic markings;
Taxonomic references: Landry 1995 (key to genera, hindwing broader, whitish; legs with tibial spur formula of
Arequipa, Chrysoteuchia, Platytes, Raphiptera, Tehama); 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs short. ABDOMEN: smooth, with
Bird 2003-2006 (Agriphila); Bird 2003 (Catoptria); Klots paired tympanal organs ventrally on the first abdominal
1940 (some Crambus); Kearfott 1908 (some Crambus, segment.
some Neodactria); Klots 1942 (some Crambus, some Similar taxa: Prionapterygini are best separated from other
Pediasia); McDunnough 1921 (some Crambus); Fernald crambids and pyralids by the forewing pattern.
1896 (some Crambus, Fissicrambus, most Neodactria, Taxonomic references: Fernald 1896
Parapediasia, some Pediasia, some Thaumatopis); Capps
1966 (Euchromius); McDunnough 1929 (Loxocrambus); Crambidae, Schoenobiinae (Fig. 157)
Klots 1968 (Microcrambus); Bird 2003-2009 (most Superfamily: Pyraloidea
Pediasia) Number of Canadian species: over 4 spp. across S. Canada
Genera: Carectocultus, Donacaula
Crambidae, Crambinae, Haimbachiini (Fig. 155) Abundance: rare to common, at lights, associated with
Superfamily: Pyraloidea water
Number of Canadian species: 5 spp. across Canada Quick recognition: Scaled proboscis, forewing acutely
Genera: Chilo, Eoreuma, Occidentalia, Thopeutis, Xubida pointed, extremely long porrect palps, yellow or brown
Abundance: rare, at lights forewing, often with streaky markings. Difficult to identify
Quick recognition: Scaled proboscis, very long porrect to species.
palps, elongate forewing with squared tip, usually streaky Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present or absent; chaetosemata
looking, broad hindwing. Fairly easy to identify to species. usually present; head scales rough or smooth; proboscis
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli usually present; chaetosemata scaled, reduced; labial palps porrect, extremely long,
present; head scales smooth, sometimes roughened on sometimes tufted; antenna filiform, with long sensillae,
vertex; proboscis scaled; labial palps porrect, very long, with two scale rows per antennal segment, usually less
usually slender; antenna filiform, with two scale rows per than half forewing length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous,
antennal segment, usually less than half forewing length. forewing slender, apex acute, typically streaked, yellow
THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing slender, often or brown; hindwing broad, whitish; legs with tibial spur
streaked in pattern, usually brownish; hindwing usually formula of 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs short. ABDOMEN:
broader, greyish or white; legs with tibial spur formula smooth, with paired tympanal organs ventrally on the first
of 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs usually long. ABDOMEN: abdominal segment.
smooth, with paired tympanal organs ventrally on the first Similar taxa: Schoenobiinae are best separated from others
abdominal segment. by the characteristic forewing shape and pattern.
Similar taxa: Haimbachiini are best separated from other Taxonomic references: none
crambids and pyralids by the forewing pattern.
Taxonomic references: Fernald 1896 (Chilo, Occidentalia); Crambidae, Acentropiinae (Fig. 158)
Klots 1970 (Eoreuma, Xubida); Capps 1965 (Haimbachia) Superfamily: Pyraloidea
Number of Canadian species: 19 spp. across Canada
Crambidae, Crambinae, Prionapterygini (Fig. 156) Genera: Acentria, Elophila, Eoparargyractis,
Superfamily: Pyraloidea Neocataclysta, Parapoynx, Petrophila
Number of Canadian species: 2 spp. Pseudoschoenobius Abundance: common to uncommon, at lights, associated
opalescalis in S. AB, Prionapteryx nebulifera in S. MB with water, often flushed during the day
& S. ON Quick recognition: Scaled proboscis, forewing elongate
Genera: Prionapteryx, Pseudoschoenobius triangular, both wings usually boldly patterned. Usually
Abundance: very rare, at lights easy to identify to species.
Quick recognition: Scaled proboscis, very long porrect or Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present, rarely absent;
descending palps, elongate forewing with acute or falcate chaetosemata present; head scales smooth; proboscis
tip, broad hindwing. Easy to identify to species. scaled, rarely absent; labial palps ascending, rarely
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present or absent; chaetosemata descending, short, sometimes tufted; antenna filiform,

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often with long sensillae, with one or two scale rows per THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing triangular, apex
antennal segment, often less than half forewing length. acute or square, typically boldly patterned with fine lines,
THORAX: wings heteroneurous, female rarely apterous, varying in colour; hindwing broad, often slightly boldly
forewing elongate triangular, apex acute or square, typically patterned; legs with tibial spur formula of 0-2-4, hind
boldly patterned with many fine lines, varying in colour, tibial spurs often long. ABDOMEN: smooth, with paired
but usually pale; hindwing broad, usually boldly patterned, tympanal organs ventrally on the first abdominal segment.
varying in colour, sometimes with gold spots on the outer Similar taxa: Evergestinae are easy to separate from other
margin; legs with tibial spur formula of 0-2-4, hind tibial crambids and pyralids by the wing pattern.
spurs usually short. ABDOMEN: smooth, often boldly Taxonomic references: Munroe 1973
patterned, with paired tympanal organs ventrally on the
first abdominal segment. Crambidae, Glaphyriinae (Fig. 161)
Similar taxa: Acentropiinae are easy to separate from other Superfamily: Pyraloidea
crambids and pyralids by the wing pattern. Number of Canadian species: 12 spp. mainly in southern
Taxonomic references: Scholtens & Balogh 1996 ON and QC, also in southern BC.
(Acentria); Munroe 1972a, 1973 (most spp.) Genera: Abegesta, Aethiophysa, Chalcoela, Dicymolomia,
Glaphyria, Hellula, Lipocosma, Lipocosmodes,
Crambidae, Odontiinae (Fig. 159) Nephrogramma, Stegea, Xanthophysa
Superfamily: Pyraloidea Abundance: rare to uncommon, at lights
Number of Canadian species: 6 spp. scattered across Quick recognition: Scaled proboscis, most spp. have
southern Canada distinct forewing and hindwing patterns. Fairly easy to
Genera: Anatralata, Eustixia, Frechinia, Metrea, identify to species.
Microtheoris, Mimoschinia Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent,
Abundance: rare to uncommon, at lights but scale tufts present in that location; head scales usually
Quick recognition: Scaled proboscis, most spp. have rough on vertex, smooth on frons; proboscis scaled;
distinct forewing patterns. Easy to identify to species. labial palps usually porrect, usually short, usually tufted;
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata usually antenna filiform, with two scale rows per antennal segment,
present; head scales smooth, often rough on vertex; usually about half forewing length. THORAX: wings
proboscis scaled; labial palps usually porrect, usually short, heteroneurous, forewing triangular, apex square, typically
usually tufted; antenna filiform, often with long sensillae, boldly patterned with fine antemedial and postmedial lines
with two scale rows per antennal segment, often less than or blotches, varying in colour; hindwing broad, usually with
half forewing length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, a rough continuation of forewing pattern; legs with tibial
forewing triangular, apex acute or square, typically boldly spur formula of 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs long. ABDOMEN:
patterned, varying in colour, usually pale, rarely with smooth, with paired tympanal organs ventrally on the first
raised scales; hindwing broad, usually whitish; legs with abdominal segment.
tibial spur formula of 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs usually Similar taxa: Glaphyriinae are easy to separate from other
long. ABDOMEN: smooth, with paired tympanal organs crambids and pyralids by the wing pattern.
ventrally on the first abdominal segment. Taxonomic references: Munroe 1972b, 1973
Similar taxa: Odontiinae are easy to separate from other
crambids and pyralids by the wing pattern. Crambidae, Pyraustinae (Fig. 162)
Taxonomic references: Munroe 1972b, 1973 Superfamily: Pyraloidea
Number of Canadian species: 52 spp. throughout Canada.
Crambidae, Evergestinae (Fig. 160) Genera: Achyra, Anania, Crocidophora, Fumibotys,
Superfamily: Pyraloidea Hahncappsia, Loxostege, Nascia, Neohelvibotys, Ostrinia,
Number of Canadian species: 13 spp. throughout Canada, Perispasta, Pyrausta, Saucrobotys, Sitochroa, Uresiphita
most diverse in the west. Abundance: common, at lights
Genera: Cylindrifrons, Evergestis, Orenaia, Prorasea Quick recognition: Scaled proboscis, most spp. have
Abundance: common to uncommon, at lights distinct forewing and hindwing patterns. Often easy to
Quick recognition: Scaled proboscis, most spp. have identify to species.
distinct forewing patterns. Fairly easy to identify to species. Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent;
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent; head scales rough on vertex, smooth on frons; proboscis
head scales usually rough on vertex, smooth on frons; scaled; labial palps usually porrect, usually short, usually
proboscis scaled; labial palps porrect or ascending, usually tufted; antenna filiform, usually with two scale rows per
short, tufted; antenna filiform, with two scale rows per antennal segment, greater than half forewing length.
antennal segment, often greater than half forewing length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing triangular, apex

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square or acute, typically boldly patterned with spots and southern Canada, Pseudothyris sepulchralis in extreme
lines, often brownish, often with bright colours; hindwing southern ON.
broad, often boldly patterned, usually brownish; legs with Genera: Pseudothyris, Thyris
tibial spur formula of 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs usually short. Abundance: rare to uncommon, diurnal
ABDOMEN: smooth, occasionally boldly patterned, with Quick recognition: Naked proboscis, both wings dark with
paired tympanal organs ventrally on the first abdominal a distinct pale blotchy pattern. Easy to identify to species.
segment. Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent;
Similar taxa: Pyraustinae are easy to separate from head scales smooth; proboscis naked; labial palps usually
most other crambids and pyralids by the wing pattern. ascending, long, tufted; antenna filiform, with two scale
Spilomelinae are difficult to separate except by familiarity rows per antennal segment, greater than half forewing
with the wing patterns of the various genera. length. THORAX: stout, wings heteroneurous, forewing
Taxonomic references: Munroe 1976a, 1976b triangular, apex square, dark with pale blotches; hindwing
broad, patterned like forewing; legs with tibial spur formula
Crambidae, Spilomelinae (Fig. 163) of 0-2-4, hind tibial spurs long, tarsal spines present.
Superfamily: Pyraloidea ABDOMEN: smooth, boldly patterned.
Number of Canadian species: 47 spp. throughout Canada. Similar taxa: The naked proboscis, lack of ocelli, and
Genera: Anageshna, Blepharomastix, Choristostigma, characteristic wing pattern are distinctive.
Desmia, Diacme, Diaphania, Diastictis, Diathrausta, Taxonomic references: Covell 1984
Framinghamia, Herpetogramma, Hymenia, Lineodes,
Loxostegopsis, Mecyna, Nomophila, Palpita, Pantographa, Hesperiidae, Eudaminae (Fig. 165)
Polygrammodes, Spolodea, Udea Superfamily: Hesperioidea
Abundance: common, at lights Number of Canadian species: 5 spp. through much of
Quick recognition: Scaled proboscis, most spp. have Canada, most diverse in extreme southern ON.
distinct forewing and hindwing patterns. Often easy to Genera: Achalarus, Epargyreus, Thorybes, Urbanus
identify to species. Abundance: uncommon to common, diurnal
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent; Quick recognition: Hooked and clubbed antenna, broad
head scales rough on vertex, smooth on frons; proboscis dark or chocolate brown wings, stout body.
scaled; labial palps usually porrect, usually short, often Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present;
tufted; antenna filiform, often with long sensillae, usually head scales rough; proboscis naked; labial palps ascending,
with two scale rows per antennal segment, usually greater short, roughly scaled; antenna hooked and clubbed, far apart
than half forewing length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, at base, with many rows of scales per antennal segment,
forewing triangular, apex square or acute, typically boldly varying in length. THORAX: stout, wings heteroneurous,
patterned with spots and lines, often brownish, often with forewing triangular, apex square, brown, often with paler
bright colours; hindwing broad, often boldly patterned, markings in the medial and postmedial areas; hindwing
usually brownish; legs with tibial spur formula of 0-2-4, broad, brown, usually unicolourous, sometimes with
hind tibial spurs short. ABDOMEN: smooth, rarely boldly tails; hind tibial spurs short, hind tarsal spines present.
patterned, with paired tympanal organs ventrally on the ABDOMEN: smooth.
first abdominal segment. Similar taxa: Eudamines are easily separated from other
Similar taxa: Spilomelinae are easy to separate from skippers by the forewing pattern.
most other crambids and pyralids by the wing pattern. Taxonomic references: Layberry et al. 1998
Pyraustinae are difficult to separate except by familiarity
with the wing patterns of the various genera. Hesperiidae, Pyrginae (Fig. 166)
Taxonomic references: Munroe 1956a (Anageshna); Superfamily: Hesperioidea
Powell & Opler 2009 (Choristostigma, Diaphania, Number of Canadian species: 19 spp. throughout Canada.
some Diathrausta, some Herpetogramma, Lineodes, Genera: Erynnis, Pholisora, Pyrgus, Staphylus
Mecyna, Nomophila); Covell 1984 (Desmia, Diacme, Abundance: common, diurnal
Diaphania, some Herpetogramma, Hymenia, Nomophila, Quick recognition: Clubbed and often hooked antenna,
Pantographa, Polygrammodes, Spolodea); Munroe 1956b broad brown or grey wings with paler markings, stout body.
(Diastictis); Munroe 1956c (Diathrausta); Munroe 1952 Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present;
(Palpita); Munroe 1966 (Udea) head scales rough, sometimes smooth; proboscis naked;
labial palps ascending or porrect, variable in length, tufted;
Thyrididae (Fig. 164) antenna clubbed, often hooked, far apart at base, with many
Superfamily: Thyridoidea scale rows per antennal segment, less than half forewing
Number of Canadian species: 2 spp. Thyris maculata across length. THORAX: stout, wings heteroneurous, forewing

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broad, apex square, brown or grey with paler markings, skippers by the wing pattern.
postmedial line always at least partially visible; hindwing Taxonomic references: Layberry et al. 1998
broad, brown, often unicolourous; hind tibial spurs short,
hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: hairy. Hesperiidae, Megathyminae (Fig. 169)
Similar taxa: Pyrgines are easily separated from other Superfamily: Hesperioidea
skippers by the forewing pattern. Number of Canadian species: 1 sp. (Megathymus streckeri)
Taxonomic references: Layberry et al. 1998 in extreme SE AB.
Genera: Megathymus
Hesperiidae, Heteropterinae (Fig. 167) Abundance: very rare, diurnal, associated with yucca.
Superfamily: Hesperioidea Quick recognition: Very large, clubbed antenna, broad
Number of Canadian species: 1 sp. (Carterocephalus stout wings, stout body.
palaemon) throughout Canada. Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present;
Genera: Carterocephalus head scales smooth; proboscis naked; labial palps
Abundance: uncommon to common, diurnal ascending, short, slightly tufted; antenna clubbed, far
Quick recognition: Clubbed antenna, wings distinctly apart at base, with many scale rows per antennal segment,
checkered brown and orange, stout body. less than half forewing length. THORAX: robust, wings
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present; heteroneurous, forewing broad, apex square, brown with
head scales rough; proboscis naked; labial palps ascending, distinct broad cream markings in postmedial area; hindwing
long, tufted; antenna clubbed, with a slight hook, far apart broad, brown; hind tibial spurs short, hind tibial and tarsal
at base, with many scale rows per antennal segment, spines present. ABDOMEN: hairy.
approximately half forewing length. THORAX: stout, Similar taxa: Megathyminae can be separated from all
wings heteroneurous, forewing broad, apex square, other Canadian skippers by its massive size.
distinctly checkered brown and orange; hindwing broad, Taxonomic references: Brock & Kaufman 2006
with a similar pattern as the forewing; hind tibial spurs
short, hind tibial and tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: Papilionidae, Parnassiinae (Fig. 170)
hairy. Superfamily: Papilionoidea
Similar taxa: Heteropterinae are easily separated from Number of Canadian species: 4 spp. mostly restricted to
other skippers by the wing pattern. the western Cordillera.
Taxonomic references: Layberry et al. 1998 Genera: Parnassius
Abundance: uncommon to common, diurnal, in mountain
Hesperiidae, Hesperiinae (Fig. 168) and foothill areas
Superfamily: Hesperioidea Quick recognition: Clubbed antenna, wings white or yellow
Number of Canadian species: 47 spp. throughout Canada, with black spots.
most diverse in the southeast. Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present;
Genera: Amblyscirtes, Anatrytone, Ancyloxypha, head scales rough; proboscis naked; labial palps ascending
Atalopedes, Atrytonopsis, Calpodes, Euphyes, Hesperia, or porrect, short, tufted; antenna clubbed, with many
Hylephila, Oarisma, Ochlodes, Panoquina, Poanes, scale rows per antennal segment or naked, less than half
Polites, Pompeius, Thymelicus, Wallengrenia forewing length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing
Abundance: common, diurnal triangular, apex rounded, white or yellow with black
Quick recognition: Clubbed and often hooked antenna, shading and spots; hindwing broad, with a similar pattern
broad stout wings, stout body. as the forewing, but with some red spots submarginally;
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present; hind tibial spurs short, hind tibial and tarsal spines present.
head scales usually rough; proboscis naked; labial palps ABDOMEN: hairy.
usually ascending, usually short, tufted; antenna clubbed, Similar taxa: Parnassiines can be separated from all other
usually hooked, far apart at base, with many scale rows butterflies by the forewing pattern.
per antennal segment, usually less than half forewing Taxonomic references: Layberry et al. 1998
length. THORAX: stout, wings heteroneurous, forewing
broad, apex square, pattern variable, males sometimes Papilionidae, Papilioninae (Fig. 171)
with raised patches of sex scales, often orange, brown, Superfamily: Papilionoidea
or black; hindwing broad, usually with a similar pattern Number of Canadian species: 14 spp. throughout Canada.
as the forewing; hind tibial spurs short, hind tibial spines Genera: Battus, Eurytides, Papilio
sometimes present, tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: Abundance: common, diurnal
hairy. Quick recognition: Clubbed antenna, distinct wing pattern,
Similar taxa: Hesperiinae are easily separated from other hindwing with tail.

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Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present; ABDOMEN: smooth or hairy.

head scales usually rough; proboscis naked; labial palps Similar taxa: Coliadinae are most similar to Pierinae but
ascending or porrect, short, tufted; antenna clubbed, usually can be separated by wing pattern.
unscaled, less than half forewing length. THORAX: wings Taxonomic references: Layberry et al. 1998
heteroneurous, forewing triangular, apex rounded or acute,
lines often distinct, especially subterminal, black, often Lycaenidae, Miletinae (Fig. 174)
with yellow; hindwing broad, with a similar pattern as the Superfamily: Papilionoidea
forewing, with at least indication of a tail, normally with Number of Canadian species: 1 sp. (Feniseca tarquinius)
at least some metallic blue marginally; hind tibial spurs from E. SK eastwards.
short, hind tibial and tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: Genera: Feniseca
smooth, usually boldly striped. Abundance: rare, diurnal, most common among alder
Similar taxa: Papilioninae can be separated from all other shrubs that harbour wooly aphids
butterflies by the forewing pattern coupled with hindwing Quick recognition: Clubbed and banded antenna, wings
tails. boldly marked with orange and brown.
Taxonomic references: Layberry et al. 1998 Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present;
head scales somewhat roughened; proboscis naked; labial
Pieridae, Pierinae (Fig. 172) palps partially ascending, fairly short, slender; antenna
Superfamily: Papilionoidea clubbed, banded, with many scale rows per antennal
Number of Canadian species: 18 spp. throughout Canada. segment, less than half forewing length. THORAX: slender,
Genera: Anthocaris, Ascia, Euchloe, Neophasia, Pieris, hairy; wings heteroneurous, forewing squared, orange with
Pontia brown markings; hindwing broad, with a similar pattern
Abundance: common, diurnal as the forewing; hind tibial spurs short, hind tarsal spines
Quick recognition: Clubbed antenna, wings usually white present. ABDOMEN: slightly hairy.
with black markings. Similar taxa: Miletinae are easily separated from other
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present; lycaenids by the wing pattern.
head scales rough; proboscis naked; labial palps usually Taxonomic references: Layberry et al. 1998
ascending, usually short, tufted; antenna clubbed, with
many scale rows per antennal segment, less than half Lycaenidae, Lycaeninae (Fig. 175)
forewing length. THORAX: slender, hairy; wings Superfamily: Papilionoidea
heteroneurous, forewing squared, usually white with Number of Canadian species: 12 spp. throughout Canada
black markings, especially apically; hindwing broad, Genera: Lycaena
sometimes with a similar pattern as the forewing, white; Abundance: common to uncommon, diurnal
hind tibial spurs short, hind tibial and tarsal spines present. Quick recognition: Clubbed and banded antenna, wings
ABDOMEN: smooth or hairy. often iridescent, especially in males.
Similar taxa: Pierinae are most similar to Coliadinae and Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present;
can be separated by wing pattern. head scales rough; proboscis naked; labial palps ascending
Taxonomic references: Layberry et al. 1998 or porrect, variable in length, tufted; antenna clubbed,
banded, with many scale rows per antennal segment,
Pieridae, Coliadinae (Fig. 173) usually less than half forewing length. THORAX: slender,
Superfamily: Papilionoidea hairy; wings heteroneurous, forewing squared, variable
Number of Canadian species: 22 spp. throughout Canada. in pattern, often orange and black, usually iridescent in
Genera: Colias, Eurema, Nathalis, Phoebis, Zerene males; hindwing broad, usually with a similar pattern as
Abundance: common, diurnal the forewing; hind tibial spurs short, hind tibial and tarsal
Quick recognition: Clubbed antenna, wings usually yellow spines present. ABDOMEN: slightly hairy.
with black markings. Similar taxa: Lycaeninae can be separated from other
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present; lycaenids by wing pattern.
head scales rough; proboscis naked; labial palps usually Taxonomic references: Layberry et al. 1998
ascending, short, often tufted; antenna clubbed, with many
scale rows per antennal segment, less than half forewing Lycaenidae, Theclinae (Fig. 176)
length. THORAX: slender, hairy; wings heteroneurous, Superfamily: Papilionoidea
forewing squared, usually yellow with black markings, Number of Canadian species: 31 spp. throughout Canada
especially apically; hindwing broad, sometimes with Genera: Callophrys, Calycopis, Erora, Parrhasius,
a similar pattern as the forewing, usually yellow; hind Satyrium
tibial spurs short, hind tibial and tarsal spines present. Abundance: common to uncommon, diurnal, rarely

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crepuscular half forewing length. THORAX: slender, hairy; wings

Quick recognition: Clubbed and banded antenna, hindwings heteroneurous, forewing squared, brown and orange with
often with slender tail, wing pattern usually more complex prominent white spots; hindwing broad, with a similar
ventrally than dorsally. pattern as the forewing; hind tibial spurs short, hind tibial
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present; and tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: smooth.
eye hairy; head scales usually rough; proboscis naked; Similar taxa: Riodinidae can be separated from other
labial palps ascending or porrect, variable in length, often butterflies by the wing pattern.
tufted; antenna clubbed, banded, with many scale rows Taxonomic references: Layberry et al. 1998
per antennal segment, less than half forewing length. Nymphalidae, Libytheinae (Fig. 179)
THORAX: slender, hairy; wings heteroneurous, forewing Superfamily: Papilionoidea
squared, pattern usually weak, often brown, pattern Number of Canadian species: 1 sp. (Libytheana carinenta)
typically more distinctive and composed of many fine a stray in ON and QC
lines on ventral side; hindwing broad, usually with a similar Genera: Libytheana
pattern as the forewing, usually with a slender tail; hind Abundance: rare, diurnal
tibial spurs short, hind tibial spines often present, tarsal Quick recognition: Clubbed antenna, extremely long labial
spines present. ABDOMEN: slightly hairy. palps.
Similar taxa: Theclinae can be separated from other Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present;
lycaenids by ventral wing pattern. head scales rough; proboscis naked; labial palps porrect,
Taxonomic references: Layberry et al. 1998 very long, slightly tufted; antenna clubbed, with many scale
rows per antennal segment, less than half forewing length.
Lycaenidae, Polyommatinae (Fig. 177) THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing squared at
Superfamily: Papilionoidea apex, brown with orange markings basally and white spots
Number of Canadian species: 19 spp. throughout Canada apically; hindwing broad, brown with orange; forelegs
Genera: Celastrina, Cupido, Echinargus, Euphilotes, reduced to small brushes; hind tibial spurs short, hind
Glaucopsyche, Leptotes, Lycaeides, Plebejus tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: smooth.
Abundance: common, diurnal Similar taxa: The very long labial palps and wing pattern
Quick recognition: Clubbed and banded antenna, wings are distinctive.
often iridescent blue with black. Taxonomic references: Layberry et al. 1998
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present; eye
sometimes hairy; head scales rough; proboscis naked; labial Nymphalidae, Danainae (Fig. 180)
palps usually ascending, variable in length, tufted; antenna Superfamily: Papilionoidea
clubbed, banded, with many scale rows per antennal Number of Canadian species: 1 sp. (Danaus plexippus)
segment, less than half forewing length. THORAX: slender, throughout southern Canada, more common to the south
hairy; wings heteroneurous, forewing squared, usually and east
iridescent blue with black markings; hindwing broad, with Genera: Danaus
a similar pattern as the forewing; hind tibial spurs short, Abundance: common to rare migrant, diurnal; associated
hind tibial spines rarely present, tarsal spines present. with milkweeds
ABDOMEN: slightly hairy. Quick recognition: Clubbed antenna, bold orange and black
Similar taxa: Polyommatinae can be separated from other wing pattern, hind tibia unspined.
lycaenids by wing pattern. Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present;
Taxonomic references: Layberry et al. 1998 head scales rough; proboscis naked; labial palps ascending,
short, tufted; antenna clubbed, unscaled, less than half
Riodinidae (Fig. 178) forewing length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing
Superfamily: Papilionoidea triangular, apex acute and rounded, orange with black veins
Number of Canadian species: 1 sp. (Apodemia mormo) in and margins with white spots; hindwing broad, similar in
S. BC and S. SK pattern to forewing; forelegs reduced to small brushes; hind
Genera: Apodemia tibial spurs short, hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN:
Abundance: rare, diurnal smooth, black with white spots.
Quick recognition: Clubbed and banded antenna, wings Similar taxa: Limenitis archippus is a convincing mimic
brown and orange with prominent white spots. of this species and can be separated by having a curved
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present; line through the hindwing and hind tibial spines that D.
head scales rough; proboscis naked; labial palps usually plexippus lacks.
ascending, short, slightly tufted; antenna clubbed, banded, Taxonomic references: Layberry et al. 1998
with many scale rows per antennal segment, greater than

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Nymphalidae, Limenitidinae (Fig. 181) Abundance: locally uncommon, diurnal

Superfamily: Papilionoidea Quick recognition: Clubbed antenna, distinct wing pattern.
Number of Canadian species: 4 spp. throughout Canada Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present;
Genera: Limenitis head scales rough; proboscis naked; labial palps ascending,
Abundance: common, diurnal short, fairly slender; antenna clubbed, with many scale rows
Quick recognition: Clubbed antenna, either black with a per segment, usually greater than half the forewing length.
broad white band or bold orange and black wing pattern, THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing triangular,
hind tibia spined. typically orange or grey with a complex series of dark spots
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present; and lines; hindwing broad, similar in pattern to forewing;
head scales rough; proboscis naked; labial palps ascending, forelegs reduced to small brushes; hind tibial spurs short,
short, at least semi-tufted; antenna clubbed, unscaled, hind tibial and tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: smooth.
usually roughly half forewing length. THORAX: wings Similar taxa: Apaturinae can be easily separated from other
heteroneurous, forewing triangular, apex somewhat square, butterflies by the wing pattern.
either predominantly black with a broad white band or Taxonomic references: Layberry et al. 1998
orange with black veining; hindwing broad, similar in
pattern to forewing; forelegs reduced to small brushes; Nymphalidae, Nymphalinae (Fig. 184)
hind tibial spurs short, hind tibial and tarsal spines present. Superfamily: Papilionoidea
ABDOMEN: smooth, usually striped. Number of Canadian species: 33 spp. throughout Canada
Similar taxa: Limenitis archippus is a convincing mimic Genera: Aglais, Chlosyne, Euphydryas, Junonia,
of D. plexippus; L. archippus can be recognized by the Nymphalis, Phyciodes, Polygonia, Vanessa
curved black line bisecting the hindwing pattern and the Abundance: common, diurnal; many species hibernate
presence of hind tibial spines. as adults
Taxonomic references: Layberry et al. 1998 Quick recognition: Clubbed antenna, distinct wing pattern,
wings margins often jagged.
Nymphalidae, Heliconiinae (Fig. 182) Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present;
Superfamily: Papilionoidea head scales rough; proboscis naked; compound eye
Number of Canadian species: 27 spp. throughout Canada sometimes with long interfacetal hairs; labial palps
Genera: Agraulis, Argynnis, Boloria, Euptoieta ascending, usually long, usually tufted; antenna clubbed,
Abundance: common, diurnal with many scale rows per segment, usually less than half
Quick recognition: Clubbed antenna, upperside of wings the forewing length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous,
usually orange with many black spots and lines, underside forewing triangular to more squared, variable in pattern,
of hindwing often with prominent silvery spots or complex often orange and black, often with jagged outer margin;
patterns. hindwing broad, similar in pattern to forewing, often
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present; jagged, sometimes with tail; forelegs reduced to small
head scales rough; proboscis naked; labial palps ascending, brushes; hind tibial spurs short, hind tibial and tarsal spines
variable in length, tufted; antenna clubbed, with many present. ABDOMEN: smooth to hairy.
scale rows per segment, variable in length. THORAX: Similar taxa: Nymphalinae can be easily separated from
wings heteroneurous, forewing triangular, apex somewhat other butterflies by the wing pattern.
square to rounded, typically orange with a complex series Taxonomic references: Layberry et al. 1998
of black spots and lines; hindwing broad, dorsally similar
in pattern to forewing, ventrally usually with abundant Nymphalidae, Satyrinae (Fig. 185)
silvery spots or with a complex pattern; forelegs reduced Superfamily: Papilionoidea
to small brushes; hind tibial spurs short, hind tibial and Number of Canadian species: 34 spp. throughout Canada
tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: smooth to hairy, rarely Genera: Cercyonis, Coenonympha, Erebia, Lethe, Megisto,
boldly patterned. Neominois, Oeneis
Similar taxa: Heliconiines can be easily separated from Abundance: common, diurnal
other butterflies by the wing pattern. Quick recognition: Slightly clubbed antenna, usually drab
Taxonomic references: Layberry et al. 1998 brown, grey, or black.
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present;
Nymphalidae, Apaturinae (Fig. 183) head scales rough; proboscis naked; compound eye
Superfamily: Papilionoidea sometimes with long interfacetal hairs; labial palps
Number of Canadian species: 2 spp. in extreme southern ascending, usually long, tufted; antenna with a slight club,
MB, ON, and QC with many scale rows per segment, less than half the
Genera: Asterocampa forewing length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing

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usually triangular, variable in pattern, often drab greyish or often with many fine lines; hindwing broad, usually paler,
brownish; hindwing broad, similar in pattern to forewing, usually with a similar pattern to forewing; hind tibial spurs
often with eyespots ventrally; forelegs reduced to small variable in length. ABDOMEN: smooth, tympana present
brushes; hind tibial spurs short, hind tibial and tarsal spines ventrally on the first abdominal segment.
present. ABDOMEN: smooth to hairy. Similar taxa: Drepaninae are superficially similar to
Similar taxa: Satyrinae can be easily separated from other Geometridae and are separated by forewing pattern, and
butterflies by the wing pattern. often hooked apex.
Taxonomic references: Layberry et al. 1998 Taxonomic references: Handfield 1999
Drepanidae, Thyatirinae (Fig. 186) Uraniidae, Epipleminae (Fig. 188)
Superfamily: Drepanoidea Superfamily: Uranioidea
Number of Canadian species: 8 spp. throughout much of Number of Canadian species: 2 spp. across Canada
Canada Genera: Calledapteryx, Callizia
Genera: Ceranemota, Euthyatira, Habrosyne, Abundance: uncommon, at lights
Pseudothyatira Quick recognition: Overall geometrid-like, small, both
Abundance: uncommon to common, at lights wings with a dark marking in middle of outer margin, live
Quick recognition: Overall noctuid-like, with tympana specimens rest characteristically with the hindwing sagging
ventrally on the first abdominal segment. Some species away from the forewings. Easy to identify to species.
are difficult to separate. Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present;
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; head head scales smooth; proboscis naked; labial palps porrect,
scales rough; proboscis naked; compound eye sometimes short, slender; antenna filiform, with two scale rows per
with long interfacetal hairs; labial palps variable in segment, less than half the forewing length. THORAX:
orientation, usually short, tufted; antenna filiform, rarely wings heteroneurous, forewing triangular, grey or brown
pectinate, with two scale rows per segment, less than half with darker fine markings, prominent dark marks present
the forewing length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, in middle of outer margin; hindwing broad, with a similar
forewing usually elongate and rectangular, variable in pattern to forewing; hind tibial spurs long. ABDOMEN:
pattern, greyish or sometimes brownish; hindwing broad, smooth, tympana present ventrally on the first abdominal
drab grey or brownish; hind tibial spurs usually short, segment.
hind tibial spines often present, hind tarsal spines present. Similar taxa: Uraniids can be separated from other similar
ABDOMEN: hairy, sometimes with dorsal scale tufts, moths by the forewing pattern.
tympana present ventrally on the first abdominal segment. Taxonomic references: Handfield 1999
Similar taxa: Thyatirinae are superficially similar to
Notodontidae and Noctuidae and are separated by forewing Geometridae, Larentiinae, Cidariini (Fig. 189)
pattern and by the tympana being on the abdomen instead Superfamily: Geometroidea
of the metathorax as they are in Noctuoidea. Number of Canadian species: 34 spp. throughout Canada
Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004a Genera: Colostygia, Dysstroma, Ecliptoptera, Eulithis,
(pictures and distribution), Clarke & Benjamin 1938 Eurhinosea, Eustroma, Plemyria, Thera
(Ceranemota); Handfield 1999 (Euthyatira, Habrosyne, Abundance: common, at lights
Pseudothyatira) Quick recognition: Very broad delicate wings, forewing
usually with many fine complex lines, hindwing usually
Drepanidae, Drepaninae (Fig. 187) pale and patterned different than forewing. Some genera
Superfamily: Drepanoidea are very difficult to identify to species.
Number of Canadian species: 4 spp. throughout Canada Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present;
Genera: Drepana, Eudeilina, Oreta head scales smooth; proboscis naked; labial palps usually
Abundance: common, at lights porrect or ascending, usually short, usually tufted; antenna
Quick recognition: Overall broad-winged geometrid-like, filiform, often with long sensillae, with two scale rows
most spp. with a distinct hook at the forewing apex. Easy per segment, roughly half the forewing length or less.
to identify to species. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing triangular,
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; typically with many fine complex lines; hindwing broad,
head scales smooth; proboscis naked; labial palps paler, usually with prominent discal spot; hind tibial spurs
usually porrect, short, usually slender; antenna filiform short, hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: smooth,
or pectinate, with two scale rows per segment, less than sometimes boldly patterned, tympana present ventrally
half the forewing length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, on the first abdominal segment.
forewing triangular, usually with a prominent hook at the Similar taxa: Cidariini can be separated from other similar
apex, variable in pattern, often brownish or yellowish, geometrids by wing pattern.

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Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004b first abdominal segment.

(pictures and distribution); Handfield 1999 (eastern spp.) Similar taxa: Stamnodini can be recognized easily by the
bold pattern on the underside of the hindwing relative to
Geometridae, Larentiinae, Hydriomenini (Fig. 190) the ventral surface.
Superfamily: Geometroidea Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004b
Number of Canadian species: 53 spp. throughout Canada (pictures and distribution)
Genera: Anticlea, Ceratodalia, Coryphista, Entephria,
Hydriomena, Mesoleuca, Perizoma, Rheumaptera, Geometridae, Larentiinae, Xanthorhoini (Fig. 192)
Spargania, Triphosa Superfamily: Geometroidea
Abundance: common, at lights Number of Canadian species: 35 spp. throughout Canada
Quick recognition: Very broad delicate wings, forewing Genera: Costaconvexa, Disclisioprocta, Enchoria,
usually with many fine complex lines or blotchy looking, Epirrhoe, Euphyia, Orthonama, Psychophora, Xanthorhoe,
hindwing usually pale and patterned different than Zenophleps
forewing. Most genera are difficult to identify to species. Abundance: common, at lights
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present; Quick recognition: Broad delicate wings, forewing with
head scales smooth, rarely roughened on vertex; proboscis many fine often scalloped lines, the medial area is often
naked; labial palps porrect, short, tufted; antenna filiform, shaded in, the hindwing is usually light with a faint pattern.
rarely with long sensillae, with two scale rows per segment, Most species are easy to identify, others are very difficult.
usually less than half the forewing length. THORAX: wings Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present;
heteroneurous, forewing triangular, typically with many head scales smooth; proboscis naked; labial palps variably
fine complex lines or large blotches; hindwing broad, paler, oriented, usually short, usually tufted; antenna filiform,
often with prominent discal spot; hind tibial spurs usually often with long sensillae, with two scale rows per segment,
short, hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: smooth, variable in length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous,
rarely boldly patterned, tympana present ventrally on the forewing triangular, patterned consists of many fine and
first abdominal segment. often scalloped lines, medial area often darkly shaded,
Similar taxa: Hydriomenini can be separated from other discal dots usually present; hindwing broad to somewhat
similar geometrids by wing pattern. narrow, pale, with a faint pattern of fine lines, discal dot
Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004b usually prominent; hind tibial spurs short, hind tarsal spines
(pictures and distribution); Handfield 1999 (eastern spp.) usually present. ABDOMEN: smooth, rarely with small
dorsal scale tuft, often boldly patterned, tympana present
Geometridae, Larentiinae, Stamnodini (Fig. 191) ventrally on the first abdominal segment.
Superfamily: Geometroidea Similar taxa: Xanthorhoini can be separated from other
Number of Canadian species: 6 spp. From BC and YT east Larentiinae by forewing pattern.
to QC, most diverse in the West Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004b
Genera: Stamnoctenis, Stamnodes (pictures and distribution); Handfield 1999 (eastern spp.)
Abundance: locally uncommon to rare, at lights, some
species diurnal Geometridae, Larentiinae, Asthenini (Fig. 193)
Quick recognition: Broad delicate wings, upperside with Superfamily: Geometroidea
subdued pattern and grey, brown, or orange, underside Number of Canadian species: 11 spp. throughout Canada
of hindwing with complex pattern, at rest usually with Genera: Hydrelia, Trichodezia, Venusia
wings folded upwards over the back. Moderately easy to Abundance: common, at lights or diurnal
identify to species. Quick recognition: small delicate geometrids, forewing
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present; usually grey with many fine lines that are accented on the
head scales often smooth on vertex, often rough on frons; veins in Venusia and most Hydrelia; other Hydrelia with
proboscis naked; labial palps descending or ascending, mostly white forewing with either broad brown bands
short, usually tufted; antenna filiform, rarely with long or finer yellow lines; forewing black with a prominent
sensillae, with two scale rows per segment, about half the white line in Trichodezia. Specific identification is often
forewing length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing fairly easy.
triangular, patterned smeared through the centre of wing, Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present;
antemedial, medial, and postmedial lines most visible along head scales smooth; proboscis naked; labial palps porrect
costa; hindwing broad, with a similar pattern dorsally, or descending, short, usually slightly tufted; antenna
ventrally with a complex shading; hind tibial spurs short, filiform, rarely pectinate, often with long sensillae, with
hind tarsal spines rarely present. ABDOMEN: smooth, two scale rows per segment, half the forewing length or
rarely boldly patterned, tympana present ventrally on the less. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing triangular,

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usually grey with many fine lines that are accented on the yellow with white blotches; hindwing somewhat squared,
veins, sometimes white with brown blotches or yellow similar in pattern to forewing, sometimes paler; hind tibial
lines, rarely jet black with a prominent white line from spurs short, hind tarsal spines absent. ABDOMEN: smooth,
mid-costa to anal angle; hindwing often relatively narrow, tympana present ventrally on the first abdominal segment.
usually pale, often with some indication of forewing Similar taxa: The forewing pattern and translucency is
pattern, discal dot usually present; hind tibial spurs often diagnostic.
long, hind tarsal spines often present. ABDOMEN: smooth, Taxonomic references: Powell & Opler (western sp.);
tympana present ventrally on the first abdominal segment. Handfield 1999 (eastern sp.)
Similar taxa: Asthenini can be separated from other
Larentiinae by forewing pattern. Geometridae, Larentiinae, Eupitheciini (Fig. 196)
Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004b Superfamily: Geometroidea
(pictures and distribution); Handfield 1999 (eastern spp.) Number of Canadian species: 67 spp. throughout Canada
Genera: Eupithecia, Horisme, Pasiphila, Prorella
Geometridae, Larentiinae, Operophterini (Fig. 194) Abundance: common, at lights
Superfamily: Geometroidea Quick recognition: Usually small to very small geometrids
Number of Canadian species: 6 spp. throughout Canada with many fine lines on the forewing and a relatively
Genera: Epirrita, Operophtera small hindwing. Specific identification usually requires
Abundance: common to abundant, at lights and diurnal dissection.
Quick recognition: Autumn-flying geometrids with broad Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present;
delicate wings, in males forewing light grey with darker head scales smooth, sometimes slightly roughened on
grey scalloped lines and bands, females brachypterous. vertex; proboscis naked; labial palps variable in orientation,
Specific identification is often easy. usually short, usually slightly tufted; antenna filiform,
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present; sometimes with long sensillae, with two scale rows per
head scales smooth, sometimes roughened on vertex; segment, usually less than half the forewing length.
proboscis naked; labial palps porrect or descending, short, THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing triangular,
sometimes tufted; antenna filiform, with long sensillae, often with many fine lines, discal dot usually present;
with two or three scale rows per segment, less than half hindwing usually very small, often rounded, often similar
the forewing length. THORAX: females brachypterous, in pattern to forewing but paler, discal dot often present;
wings heteroneurous, forewing triangular, grey with hind tibial spurs variable in length, hind tarsal spines
many fine lines and bands that are scalloped; hindwing sometimes present. ABDOMEN: smooth, often boldly
relatively narrow, pale, with some faint lines, discal dot patterned, ovipositor rarely prominent, tympana present
often present; hind tibial spurs short, hind tarsal spines ventrally on the first abdominal segment.
present. ABDOMEN: smooth, tympana present ventrally Similar taxa: The triangular forewing and relatively small
on the first abdominal segment in males. hindwing will separate Eupithecini from most other
Similar taxa: The late season flight time, size, and wing Larentiinae.
pattern will separate Operophterini from other geometrids. Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004b
Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004b (pictures and distribution); Bolte 1990 (Eupithecia)
(pictures and distribution); Handfield 1999 (eastern spp.)
Geometridae, Larentiinae, Lobophorini (Fig. 197)
Geometridae, Larentiinae, Euduliini (Fig. 195) Superfamily: Geometroidea
Superfamily: Geometroidea Number of Canadian species: 14 spp. throughout Canada
Number of Canadian species: 2 spp. across southern Genera: Acasis, Aplocera, Carsia, Cladara, Dyspteris,
Canada Heterophleps, Lobophora
Genera: Eubaphe Abundance: common, at lights
Abundance: locally uncommon to rare, at lights Quick recognition: Usually delicate geometrids with
Quick recognition: Unmistakeable translucent wings either many fine lines on the forewing and a small and elongate
solid orange or white and yellow. Both species are easy hindwing. Specific identification is usually easy.
to identify. Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present;
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present; head scales smooth; proboscis naked; labial palps variable
head scales smooth; proboscis naked; labial palps slightly in orientation, usually short, usually tufted; antenna
ascending, short, slender; antenna filiform, with two scale filiform, sometimes with long sensillae, with two or three
rows per segment, usually less than half the forewing scale rows per segment, variable in length. THORAX:
length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, translucent, wings heteroneurous, forewing triangular, often with many
forewing rounded or apically pointed, either solid orange or fine lines, discal dot often prominent; hindwing usually

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small and elongate, usually paler with faint or no pattern, white antemedial and postmedial lines; hindwing broad,
discal dot often present; hind tibial spurs usually short, sometimes with angular bulge on outer margin, with pattern
hind tarsal spines sometimes present. ABDOMEN: smooth, usually continuing from forewing; hind tibial spurs short,
rarely boldly patterned, tympana present ventrally on the hind tarsal spines usually present. ABDOMEN: smooth,
first abdominal segment. often boldly patterned, tympana present ventrally on the
Similar taxa: Lobophorini can be separated from other first abdominal segment.
geometrids by forewing pattern. Similar taxa: Few other geometrids are predominantly
Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004b green and those can be separated by wing pattern.
(pictures and distribution); Handfield 1999 (eastern spp.) Taxonomic references: Ferguson 1985

Geometridae, Sterrhinae (Fig. 198) Geometridae, Archiearinae (Fig. 200)

Superfamily: Geometroidea Superfamily: Geometroidea
Number of Canadian species: 25 spp. throughout Canada Number of Canadian species: 3 spp. throughout Canada
Genera: Cyclophora, Haematopis, Idaea, Leptostales, Genera: Archiearis, Boudinotiana, Leucobrephos
Scopula, Pleuroprucha, Lobocleta Abundance: locally uncommon, diurnal in early spring
Abundance: common, at lights Quick recognition: Stout and very hairy, hindwing
Quick recognition: Geometrids typically pale in colour with boldly patterned with black and orange or white. Specific
several fine lines that run through both fore and hindwings. identification is easy.
Specific identification can be challenging. Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present;
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present; head rough and long; proboscis naked; labial palps porrect
head scales smooth; proboscis naked; labial palps porrect or descending, short, tufted with long hairs; antenna
or ascending, short, usually tufted; antenna filiform, filiform or pectinate, sometimes with long sensillae, usually
sometimes pectinate, with long sensillae, with two scale scaleless, usually less than half forewing length. THORAX:
rows per segment, usually less than half forewing length. wings heteroneurous, forewing elongate triangular, with
THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing triangular, prominent antemedial and postmedial lines, black and white
often with an angular bulge in middle of outer margin, or brownish; hindwing broad, boldly patterned black with
pale white, grey, brown, or yellow, typically with fine white or orange, often with very long hairs along inner
darker lines, discal dot often prominent; hindwing broad, margin; hind tibial spurs short, hind tarsal spines present.
often with angular bulge in outer margin, with pattern ABDOMEN: densely hairy.
continuing from forewing, discal dot often present; hind Similar taxa: No other moths with such a bold hindwing
tibial spurs usually short, hind tarsal spines rarely present. are that densely hairy.
ABDOMEN: smooth, tympana present ventrally on the Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004b
first abdominal segment. (pictures and distribution)
Similar taxa: Sterrhinae can be separated from other
geometrids by wing pattern. Geometridae, Ennominae, Alsophilini (Fig. 201)
Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004b Superfamily: Geometroidea
(pictures and distribution); Handfield 1999 (eastern spp.) Number of Canadian species: 1 sp. (Alsophila pometaria)
from AB to NS
Geometridae, Geometrinae (Fig. 199) Genera: Alsophila
Superfamily: Geometroidea Abundance: common, at lights
Number of Canadian species: 16 spp. throughout Canada Quick recognition: Late season geometrid with grey wings
Genera: Chlorochlamys, Chlorosea, Dichorda, Hemithea, with white lines, females brachypterous.
Hethemia, Mesothea, Nemoria, Synchlora Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present;
Abundance: common, at lights or diurnal head scales smooth; proboscis reduced; labial palps porrect
Quick recognition: Geometrids that usually have green or descending, short, very slightly tufted; antenna filiform,
wings with white lines. Specific identification is usually with long sensillae, with two scale rows per segment, less
easy. than half forewing length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous,
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present; females brachypterous, forewing triangular, grey with
head scales smooth, rarely roughened; proboscis naked; white antemedial and postmedial lines; hindwing broad,
labial palps usually porrect or ascending, short, sometimes paler grey with white postmedial line and dark discal spot;
slightly tufted; antenna filiform or pectinate, often with hind tibial spurs short, hind tarsal spines rarely visible.
long sensillae, with two or three scale rows per segment, ABDOMEN: smooth, tympana present ventrally on the
usually less than half forewing length. THORAX: wings first abdominal segment in males.
heteroneurous, forewing triangular, usually green with Similar taxa: Male Alsophilini can be separated from other

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geometrids by forewing pattern. hindwing broad, sometimes pointed in outer margin, pattern
Taxonomic references: McGuffin 1988 sometimes similar to forewing; hind tibial spurs variable
in length, hind tarsal spines usually present. ABDOMEN:
Geometridae, Ennominae, Cassymini (Fig. 202) smooth, rarely boldly patterned, tympana present ventrally
Superfamily: Geometroidea on the first abdominal segment.
Number of Canadian species: 3 spp. from NT to NS Similar taxa: Macariini can usually be separated from other
Genera: Nematocampa, Protitame geometrids by forewing pattern.
Abundance: common, at lights Taxonomic references: Ferguson 2008
Quick recognition: Nematocampa easily recognized by
the complex wing pattern, Protitame is a small white Geometridae, Ennominae, Boarmini (Fig. 204)
geometrid. Specific identification can be difficult. Superfamily: Geometroidea
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present; Number of Canadian species: 28 spp. throughout Canada
head scales smooth; proboscis naked; labial palps porrect Genera: Aethalura, Anavitrinellia, Cleora, Dasyfidonia,
or ascending, short, sometimes tufted; antenna filiform Ectropis, Ematurga, Epimecis, Glena, Gnophos,
or pectinate, with long sensillae, with two scale rows Hesperumia, Iridopsis, Neoalcis, Orthofidonia,
per segment, less than half forewing length. THORAX: Protoboarmia, Stenoporpia
wings heteroneurous, forewing sometimes with slight Abundance: common, at lights
bulge in outer margin, white or yellow with either faint Quick recognition: Usually moderate-sized geometrids
yellow spots or with abundant fine dark lines and spots with grey wings, many black lines usually present on
and heavy shading beyond the postmedial line; hindwing the forewing and continue to the hindwing. Specific
broad, sometimes with slight bulge in outer margin, pattern identification is usually easy.
continuous with forewing; hind tibial spurs short, hind Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present;
tarsal spines sometimes present. ABDOMEN: smooth, head scales rough or smooth; proboscis naked; labial
tympana present ventrally on the first abdominal segment. palps usually ascending or porrect, usually short, tufted;
Similar taxa: Nematocampa is unmistakeable. Protitame antenna usually pectinate, sometimes filiform, with long
can be difficult to separate from similar small white sensillae, with two scale rows per segment or scales not
geometrids and drepanids. organized into rows, usually less than half forewing length.
Taxonomic references: Ferguson 2008 THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing triangular,
usually grey, lines often prominent and black, often jagged;
Geometridae, Ennominae, Macariini (Fig. 203) hindwing broad, rarely scalloped, pattern usually similar
Superfamily: Geometroidea to forewing; hind tibial spurs usually short, hind tarsal
Number of Canadian species: 66 spp. throughout Canada spines usually present. ABDOMEN: smooth, rarely boldly
Genera: Digrammia, Epelis, Eumacaria, Fernaldella, patterned, tympana present ventrally on the first abdominal
Heliomata, Isturgia, Macaria, Melilla, Speranza segment.
Abundance: common, at lights or diurnal Similar taxa: Boarmini can be separated from other
Quick recognition: Moderate-sized geometrids often geometrids by forewing pattern.
with prominent lines on the forewing that are expanded Taxonomic references: McGuffin 1977
to triangles at the costa, often with a prominent spot in
middle of wing just beyond postmedial line, antennae Geometridae, Ennominae, Melanolophini (Fig. 205)
often pectinate. Identification can be challenging for some Superfamily: Geometroidea
species. Number of Canadian species: 6 spp. across Canada
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present; Genera: Eufidonia, Melanolophia
head scales smooth, rarely rough on frons; proboscis naked, Abundance: common, at lights or diurnally
rarely reduced; labial palps variable in orientation, usually Quick recognition: Moderate-sized geometrids, wings
short, usually tufted; antenna usually pectinate, sometimes usually with prominent lines and discal dots, usually
filiform, with long sensillae, with two scale rows per heavily speckled with dark spots. Specific identification
segment, scales not organized into rows in some diurnal often requires dissection.
species, often less than half forewing length. THORAX: Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present;
wings heteroneurous, female rarely brachypterous, head scales smooth; proboscis naked; labial palps variable
forewing triangular, sometimes falcate or with that in orientation, short, at least slightly tufted; antenna usually
appearance due to dark scaling in the fringe below the pectinate, sometimes filiform, usually with long sensillae,
apex, lines often prominent especially at the costa where with two scale rows per segment, usually roughly half
they can be expanded to triangles, a prominent spot in forewing length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing
middle of wing is often present beyond the postmedial line; triangular, white or grey heavily speckled with dark spots,

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dark lines and discal dots usually prominent; hindwing segment.

broad, sometimes scalloped, pattern often similar to Similar taxa: Baptini can be separated from other
forewing; hind tibial spurs short, hind tarsal spines often geometrids by forewing pattern.
present. ABDOMEN: smooth, tympana present ventrally Taxonomic references: McGuffin 1981
on the first abdominal segment.
Similar taxa: Melanolophini can be separated from other Geometridae, Ennominae, Caberini (Fig. 208)
geometrids by forewing pattern. Superfamily: Geometroidea
Taxonomic references: McGuffin 1977 Number of Canadian species: 18 spp. across Canada
Genera: Apodrepanulatrix, Cabera, Drepanulatrix,
Geometridae, Ennominae, Bistonini (Fig. 206) Erastria, Eudrepanulatrix, Ixala, Sericosema
Superfamily: Geometroidea Abundance: common to uncommon, at lights
Number of Canadian species: 13 spp. throughout Canada Quick recognition: Moderate-sized to small geometrids,
Genera: Biston, Erannis, Hypagyrtis, Lycia, Paleacrita, wing pattern typically diffuse or faint and with abundant
Phigalia dusting throughout, usually pale, antenna usually pectinate.
Abundance: common, at lights Specific identification can be challenging in the west.
Quick recognition: Moderate-sized to large geometrids, Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present;
often thick bodied, females often apterous. Specific head scales smooth, sometimes roughened on vertex;
identification is usually easy. proboscis naked; labial palps porrect or ascending, often
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present; short, at least partially tufted; antenna usually pectinate,
head scales smooth or rough; proboscis naked, often with long sensillae, with scales not organized into rows,
absent; labial palps usually porrect, short, often tufted; usually roughly half forewing length or less. THORAX:
antenna pectinate or filiform, usually with long sensillae, wings heteroneurous, forewing triangular to somewhat
with two scale rows per segment, sometimes scales not elongate, usually pale with abundant dusting, lines usually
organized into rows, usually less than half forewing length. diffuse or faint; hindwing broad, often with less pattern;
THORAX: wings heteroneurous, females often apterous, hind tibial spurs variable in length, hind tarsal spines
forewing triangular, variable in pattern, typically with present. ABDOMEN: smooth, tympana present ventrally
prominent lines; hindwing broad, pattern sometimes similar on the first abdominal segment.
to forewing; hind tibial spurs short, hind tarsal spines Similar taxa: Caberini can be separated from other
usually present. ABDOMEN: smooth or hairy, often boldly geometrids by forewing pattern.
patterned, tympana present ventrally on the first abdominal Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004b
segment except in apterous females. (pictures and distribution); McGuffin 1981 (most spp.)
Similar taxa: Bistonini can be separated from other
geometrids by forewing pattern. Geometridae, Ennominae, Angeronini (Fig. 209)
Taxonomic references: McGuffin 1977 Superfamily: Geometroidea
Number of Canadian species: 17 spp. across Canada
Geometridae, Ennominae, Baptini (Fig. 207) Genera: Aspitates, Euchlaena, Lytrosis, Xanthotype
Superfamily: Geometroidea Abundance: common, at lights or diurnal
Number of Canadian species: 3 spp. across Canada Quick recognition: Moderate-sized to large geometrids,
Genera: Lomographa wing pattern typically with prominent antemedial and
Abundance: common, diurnal or at lights postmedial lines, pattern often continues to hindwing,
Quick recognition: Small delicate geometrids, either antennae usually pectinate. Specific identification can be
with gently dusted forewings with prominent lines or challenging.
immaculate white. Specific identification is easy. Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present;
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present; head scales smooth, often roughened on vertex; proboscis
head scales smooth; proboscis naked; labial palps porrect or naked; labial palps porrect or ascending, short, sometimes
descending, short, tufted; antenna filiform, with two scale tufted; antenna usually pectinate, often with long sensillae,
rows per segment, usually roughly half forewing length. with two scale rows per segment or with scales not
THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing triangular, either organized into rows, usually roughly half forewing length or
completely translucent white or light grey heavily speckled less. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing triangular,
with dark grey and prominent antemedial and postmedial sometimes with a bulge in middle of outer margin, rarely
lines; hindwing broad, usually with less pattern, often with scalloped, usually drab brown or grey, antemedial and
discal spots especially ventrally; hind tibial spurs usually postmedial lines usually prominent; hindwing broad,
short, hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: smooth, sometimes scalloped, often with a continuation of the
tympana usually present ventrally on the first abdominal forewing pattern; hind tibial spurs short, hind tarsal spines

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present. ABDOMEN: smooth, tympana present ventrally Similar taxa: Nacophorini can be separated from other
on the first abdominal segment. geometrids by forewing pattern.
Similar taxa: Angeronini can be separated from other Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004b
geometrids by forewing pattern. (pictures and distribution); McGuffin 1981 (Gabriola,
Taxonomic references: McGuffin 1981 Phaeoura)

Geometridae, Ennominae, Azelini (Fig. 210) Geometridae, Ennominae, Campaeini (Fig. 212)
Superfamily: Geometroidea Superfamily: Geometroidea
Number of Canadian species: 6 spp. across Canada Number of Canadian species: 1 sp. (Campaea perlata)
Genera: Pero throughout Canada
Abundance: common, at lights Genera: Campaea
Quick recognition: Thick-bodied geometrids, forewing Abundance: common to abundant, at lights
slightly scalloped, antemedial and postmedial lines Quick recognition: Moderate-sized pale green geometrid
prominent, reniform spot prominent. Specific identification with white antemedial and postmedial lines.
can be challenging. Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present;
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present; head scales smooth; proboscis naked; labial palps porrect,
head scales rough, sometimes smooth; proboscis naked; short, slightly tufted; antenna pectinate, with long sensillae,
labial palps porrect or ascending, short, tufted; antenna with many scale rows per segment, roughly half forewing
filiform, with two scale rows per segment, roughly half length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing
forewing length or greater. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, triangular, pale greenish white, antemedial and postmedial
forewing triangular, at least slightly scalloped, drab brown lines white, edged with green; hindwing broad, slightly
or grey, antemedial and postmedial lines prominent, pale scalloped, similar to the forewing pattern; hind tibial spurs
reniform spot usually prominent; hindwing broad, slightly short, hind tarsal spines absent. ABDOMEN: smooth,
scalloped, drab with a single pale line; hind tibial spurs tympana present ventrally on the first abdominal segment.
short, hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: smooth, Similar taxa: Campaeini can be separated from other
tympana present ventrally on the first abdominal segment. geometrids by forewing pattern.
Similar taxa: Azelini have the rough appearance of some Taxonomic references: McGuffin 1981
noctuids which have the tympana on the metathorax instead
of the abdomen. Geometridae, Ennominae, Ennomini (Fig. 213)
Taxonomic references: McGuffin 1987 Superfamily: Geometroidea
Number of Canadian species: 3 spp. across Canada
Geometridae, Ennominae, Nacophorini (Fig. 211) Genera: Ennomos
Superfamily: Geometroidea Abundance: common, at lights
Number of Canadian species: 4 spp. from E. AB to NS Quick recognition: Thick or thin-bodied geometrids,
and in S. BC, most diverse in BC both wings scalloped, either yellow with abundant darker
Genera: Animomyia, Gabriola, Phaeoura speckling or pure white. Specific identification is easy.
Abundance: uncommon, at lights Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present;
Quick recognition: Usually large thick-bodied geometrids, head scales rough; proboscis naked, sometimes reduced;
antemedial and postmedial lines prominent, reniform spot labial palps porrect or descending, about twice the length
often prominent. Specific identification is easy. of the compound eye, tufted; antenna pectinate, with many
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present; scale rows per segment, roughly half forewing length or
head scales rough on vertex, smooth on frons; proboscis less. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing triangular,
naked; labial palps porrect or ascending, short, usually scalloped, either yellow with abundant brown speckling
tufted; antenna filiform or pectinate, often with long or pure white, dark antemedial and postmedial lines and
sensillae, with two or more scale rows per segment, less reniform spot sometimes prominent; hindwing broad,
than half forewing length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, scalloped, usually similar to forewing pattern; hind tibial
forewing triangular, sometimes elongate, typically drab spurs short, hind tarsal spines rarely visible. ABDOMEN:
grey, antemedial and postmedial lines prominent, reniform smooth, sometimes boldly patterned, tympana present
spot usually prominent; hindwing broad, slightly scalloped, ventrally on the first abdominal segment.
drab or with a faint continuation of the forewing pattern; Similar taxa: Ennomini can be separated from other
hind tibial spurs short, hind tarsal spines usually present. geometrids by forewing shape and pattern.
ABDOMEN: smooth, rarely with dorsal scale tuft, Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004b
sometimes boldly patterned, tympana present ventrally (pictures and distribution); McGuffin 1987 (most spp.)
on the first abdominal segment.

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Geometridae, Ennominae, Epiranthidini (Fig. 214) Geometridae, Ennominae, Anagogini (Fig. 216)
Superfamily: Geometroidea Superfamily: Geometroidea
Number of Canadian species: 1 sp. (Spodolepis Number of Canadian species: 23 spp. throughout Canada
substriataria) across Canada Genera: Cepphis, Metanema, Metarranthis, Plagodis,
Genera: Spodolepis Probole, Selenia
Abundance: uncommon, at lights Abundance: common, at lights
Quick recognition: Slender-bodied geometrid with very Quick recognition: Small to fairly large geometrids,
large delicate wings, forewing with prominent black jagged forewing with a prominent bulge in outer margin,
antemedial and postmedial lines, reniform spot outlined hindwing often with a similar bulge, pattern on forewing
in black. and hindwing usually similar, antenna pectinate. Specific
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present; identification is usually easy.
head scales smooth, sometimes roughened on vertex; Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present;
proboscis naked; labial palps variable in orientation, head scales rough or smooth; proboscis naked; labial palps
short, tufted; antenna filiform, with two scale rows per usually ascending, usually short, usually tufted; antenna
segment, less than half forewing length. THORAX: wings pectinate, with two or more scale rows per segment,
heteroneurous, forewing triangular with a bulge in the typically less than half forewing length. THORAX: wings
middle of the outer margin, light brown to heavily speckled heteroneurous, forewing triangular with a bulge in the
in dark grey, dark jagged antemedial and postmedial lines middle of the outer margin, rarely scalloped, antemedial
prominent, reniform spot outlined in black; hindwing and postmedial lines usually prominent, discal dot often
somewhat slender, pale with prominent discal dot; hind prominent; hindwing broad, usually with bulge in outer
tibial spurs usually short, hind tarsal spines present. margin, rarely scalloped, usually similar in pattern to
ABDOMEN: smooth, tympana present ventrally on the forewing; hind tibial spurs usually long, hind tarsal spines
first abdominal segment. usually present. ABDOMEN: smooth, tympana present
Similar taxa: Epiranthidini can be separated from other ventrally on the first abdominal segment.
geometrids by forewing pattern. Similar taxa: Anagogini can be separated from other
Taxonomic references: McGuffin 1987 geometrids by forewing pattern.
Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004b
Geometridae, Ennominae, Lithinini (Fig. 215) (pictures and distribution); McGuffin 1987 (most spp.);
Superfamily: Geometroidea Handfield 1999 (eastern spp.)
Number of Canadian species: 10 spp. from SK to NF and
in BC Geometridae, Ennominae, Ourapterygini (Fig. 217)
Genera: Gueneria, Homochlodes, Petrophora, Philedia, Superfamily: Geometroidea
Tacparia, Thallophaga Number of Canadian species: 38 spp. throughout Canada
Abundance: uncommon to common, at lights Genera: Antepione, Besma, Caripeta, Cingilia, Enypia,
Quick recognition: Moderate-sized geometrids, usually Eugonobapta, Eusarca, Eutrapela, Lambdina, Meris,
brown with prominent postmedial line, pattern often Neoterpes, Nepytia, Patalene, Plataea, Prochoerodes,
mottled. Specific identification can be challenging. Sabulodes, Sicya, Synaxis, Tetracis
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present; Abundance: common, at lights
head scales smooth; proboscis naked; labial palps usually Quick recognition: Moderate-sized to large geometrids,
ascending, usually short, at least slightly tufted; antenna forewing typically boldly patterned and angular with
filiform, with two scale rows per segment, typically less prominent antemedial and postmedial lines, discal dot
than half forewing length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, usually prominent. Specific identification is usually easy.
forewing triangular sometimes with a bulge in the middle of Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata present;
the outer margin, rarely with a falcate apex, usually brown, head scales rough or smooth on vertex, usually smooth
postmedial line always prominent, others variably so; on frons; proboscis naked; labial palps usually ascending,
hindwing broad, similar in pattern to forewing; hind tibial short, usually tufted; antenna filiform or pectinate, with
spurs long, hind tarsal spines often present. ABDOMEN: two or more scale rows per segment, roughly half forewing
smooth, tympana present ventrally on the first abdominal length or less. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing
segment. triangular, often with a bulge in the middle of the outer
Similar taxa: Lithinini can be separated from other margin, antemedial and postmedial lines usually prominent,
geometrids by forewing pattern. discal dot often prominent; hindwing broad, usually with
Taxonomic references: McGuffin 1987 bulge in outer margin, sometimes prolonged into slight tail,
rarely scalloped, sometimes similar in pattern to forewing;
hind tibial spurs usually short, hind tarsal spines present.

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ABDOMEN: smooth, tympana present ventrally on the Mimallonidae (Fig. 220)

first abdominal segment. Superfamily: Mimallonoidea
Similar taxa: Ourapterygini can be separated from other Number of Canadian species: 2 spp. in extreme S. ON
geometrids by forewing pattern. Genera: Cicinnus, Lacosoma
Taxonomic references: McGuffin 1987 Abundance: rare, at lights
Quick recognition: Medium-sized stout-bodied moths,
Lasiocampidae, Macromphaliinae (Fig. 218) forewing falcate with prominent discal spot. Specific
Superfamily: Lasiocampoidea identification is easy.
Number of Canadian species: 4 spp. across Canada, most Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent;
diverse in the East head scales rough, sometimes slightly smooth on frons;
Genera: Tolype proboscis absent; labial palps porrect, short, tufted or
Abundance: uncommon to common, at lights slender; antenna pectinate, with long sensillae, with many
Quick recognition: Very stout-bodied hairy moths, with scale rows per segment, less than half forewing length.
stubby wings, forewing is typically grey with abundant THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing triangular, apex
wavy white lines. Specific identification can be tricky. falcate, with a bulge in middle of outer margin, sometimes
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; head scalloped, brown or grey, discal spot dark and prominent,
scales rough; proboscis absent; labial palps descending or typically with dark postmedial line; hindwing broad,
porrect, short, tufted; antenna pectinate, with two or more sometimes scalloped, similar in pattern to forewing; hind
scale rows per segment, roughly half forewing length or tibial spurs short, hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN:
less. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing broad hairy.
to somewhat elongate, rounded, grey, typically with Similar taxa: The wing shape and pattern is diagnostic.
many prominent pale wavy lines; hindwing broad, grey, Taxonomic references: Franclemont 1973
sometimes with some white lines; hind tibial spurs short,
hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: with long, soft Bombycidae, Apatelodinae (Fig. 221)
hairs. Superfamily: Bombycoidea
Similar taxa: There are no other moths that are this stout Number of Canadian species: 2 spp. in S. ON and S. QC
with a grey and white wing pattern. Genera: Apatelodes, Olceclostera
Taxonomic references: Franclemont 1973 Abundance: rare, at lights
Quick recognition: Medium-sized fairly stout-bodied
Lasiocampidae, Lasiocampinae (Fig. 219) moths, forewing grey with slight falcate apex, subterminal
Superfamily: Lasiocampoidea white spot present below costa in subapical area, antemedial
Number of Canadian species: 5 spp. throughout Canada, and postmedial lines thin jagged and black. Specific
most diverse in the East identification is easy.
Genera: Heteropacha, Malacosoma, Phyllodesma Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent;
Abundance: common to abundant, at lights head scales rough; proboscis absent; labial palps ascending,
Quick recognition: Very stout-bodied hairy moths, with short, tufted; antenna pectinate, with long sensillae, with
stubby wings, forewing is usually brown with distinct many scale rows per segment, less than half forewing
antemedial and postmedial lines. Specific identification length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing
is usually easy but can be very difficult in Malacosoma. triangular, apex slightly falcate, with a bulge in apical
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; compound eye hairy; half of outer margin, sometimes scalloped, grey, white spot
chaetosemata absent; head scales rough; proboscis absent; present below costa in subterminal area, antemedial and
labial palps usually porrect, short, tufted; antenna pectinate, postmedial lines thin black and jagged; hindwing broad,
with many scale rows per segment, less than half forewing sometimes slightly scalloped, either paler or darker than
length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing broad forewing; hind tibial spurs long, hind tarsal spines absent.
to somewhat elongate, rounded to pointed, sometimes ABDOMEN: hairy.
slightly scalloped, usually brown, rarely grey, typically Similar taxa: The wing shape and pattern is diagnostic.
with prominent antemedial and postmedial lines; hindwing Taxonomic references: Franclemont 1973
broad, sometimes scalloped, similar in colour to forewing,
sometimes with faint lines; hind tibial spurs short, hind Bombycidae, Bombycinae (Fig. 222)
tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: very hairy. Superfamily: Bombycoidea
Similar taxa: The general stoutness combined with Number of Canadian species: 1 non-native sp. (Bombyx
characteristic wing pattern is diagnostic. mori) reared for silk production
Taxonomic references: Franclemont 1973 Genera: Bombyx
Abundance: restricted to silkworm colonies

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Quick recognition: Medium-sized plump moths, forewing distinct antemedial and postmedial lines, discal spot large;
white with falcate apex, other dark lines and spots may be hindwing broad, usually similar to forewing in pattern and
present. Specific identification is easy. colour; hind tibial spurs short, hind tarsal spines usually
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; absent. ABDOMEN: hairy, often boldly patterned and
head scales rough; proboscis absent; labial palps minute; coloured.
antenna pectinate, with many scale rows per segment, less Similar taxa: Hemileucinae can be separated from other
than half forewing length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, large moths by wing pattern.
forewing triangular, apex falcate, with a bulge in outer Taxonomic references: Tuskes et al. 1996
margin, white, rarely with darker lines and spots; hindwing
broad, with prominent anal bulge, white; hind tibial spurs Saturniidae, Saturniinae (Fig. 225)
short, hind tarsal spines rarely visible. ABDOMEN: hairy. Superfamily: Bombycoidea
Similar taxa: The wing shape and pattern is diagnostic. Number of Canadian species: 8 spp. across Canada, most
Taxonomic references: Franclemont 1973 diverse in the East
Genera: Actias, Antheraea, Callosamia, Hyalophora, Samia
Saturniidae, Ceratocampinae (Fig. 223) Abundance: common, at lights or diurnal
Superfamily: Bombycoidea Quick recognition: Very large stout-bodied moths, wings
Number of Canadian species: 8 spp. from S. MB to NS, very large, large discal spot present on both wings. Specific
most diverse in S. ON identification is easy.
Genera: Anisota, Dryocampa, Eacles, Sphingicampa Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; head
Abundance: rare to common, at lights or diurnal scales rough, rarely smooth on frons; proboscis absent;
Quick recognition: Medium-sized to large robust-bodied labial palps small, usually tufted; antenna pectinate, usually
moths, wings often with some pink or purple shading, with long sensillae, unscaled, less than half forewing
usually with slanted postmedial line and discal spot. length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing
Specific identification is easy, except in Anisota. triangular, typically with distinct antemedial and postmedial
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; lines, discal spot large and may be transparent; hindwing
head scales rough, sometimes smooth especially on frons; broad, similar to forewing in pattern and colour, sometimes
proboscis usually reduced; labial palps small; antenna with a long tail; hind tibial spurs short, hind tarsal spines
pectinate or filiform, usually unscaled, rarely with one sometimes present. ABDOMEN: hairy, sometimes boldly
scale row per segment, less than half forewing length. patterned.
THORAX: wings heteroneurous, forewing triangular, Similar taxa: Saturniinae can be separated from other large
usually with some pink or purple shading, usually with moths by wing pattern.
slanted straight postmedial line, discal spot usually Taxonomic references: Tuskes et al. 1996
prominent; hindwing broad, usually similar to forewing
in pattern and colour; hind tibial spurs short, hind tarsal Sphingidae, Sphinginae (Fig. 226)
spines absent. ABDOMEN: smooth or hairy, rarely boldly Superfamily: Bombycoidea
patterned. Number of Canadian species: 21 spp. across Canada, most
Similar taxa: Ceratocampinae can be separated from other diverse in the East
large moths by wing pattern. Genera: Agrius, Ceratomia, Dolba, Lapara, Manduca,
Taxonomic references: Tuskes et al. 1996 Paratrea, Sphinx
Abundance: common, at lights
Saturniidae, Hemileucinae (Fig. 224) Quick recognition: Usually large thick-bodied moths,
Superfamily: Bombycoidea abdomen tapered, forewing elongate and pointed, hindwing
Number of Canadian species: 5 spp. from BC to QC, most much smaller, typically grey or brown with complex
diverse in the West pattern. Specific identification is usually easy.
Genera: Automeris, Hemileuca Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; head
Abundance: rare to uncommon, at lights or diurnal scales rough; proboscis present; labial palps ascending or
Quick recognition: Large robust-bodied moths, both porrect, usually short, tufted; antenna filiform, with two
wings usually boldly patterned, large discal spot present or more scale rows per segment, less than half forewing
on forewing. Specific identification is easy. length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, elongate and
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; head pointed, usually grey or brown, typically with many lines,
scales rough; proboscis absent; labial palps rudimentary; small discal dot usually present; hindwing small, usually
antenna pectinate, sometimes with long sensillae, boldly banded; hind tibial spurs variable in length, hind
unscaled, less than half forewing length. THORAX: tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: smooth and tapered,
wings heteroneurous, forewing triangular, typically with rarely with dorsal scale tuft, usually boldly patterned.

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Similar taxa: Similar sphingids are usually more colourful anal tufts, often boldly patterned.
at least on the hindwing. Similar taxa: Macroglossinae can be separated from other
Taxonomic references: Tuttle 2007 sphingids by wing pattern.
Taxonomic references: Tuttle 2007 (most spp.); Schmidt
Sphingidae, Smerinthinae (Fig. 227) 2009a (some Hemaris)
Superfamily: Bombycoidea
Number of Canadian species: 8 spp. throughout Canada Notodontidae, Pygaerinae (Fig. 229)
Genera: Amorpha, Pachysphinx, Paonias, Smerinthus Superfamily: Noctuoidea
Abundance: common, at lights Number of Canadian species: 5 spp. throughout Canada
Quick recognition: Usually large thick-bodied moths, Genera: Clostera
thorax often with dark central streak, abdomen usually Abundance: common, at lights
fairly blunt, forewing elongate and pointed, hindwing much Quick recognition: Medium-sized moths with a hairy
smaller often with pink or purple, often with eyespots, box-like thorax and slender abdomen with prominent anal
proboscis reduced. Specific identification is usually easy tuft, forewing grey to brown with lighter lines, obvious
but can be challenging in the west. white crescent on costa in subterminal area followed by
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; head some warmer brown shading. Specific identification is
scales rough; proboscis reduced; labial palps ascending usually easy.
or porrect, usually short, usually tufted; antenna filiform Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; compound eye hairy;
or pectinate, with many scale rows per segment, less than chaetosemata absent; head scales rough; proboscis naked,
half forewing length. THORAX: wings heteroneurous, sometimes reduced; labial palps ascending, short, tufted;
elongate and pointed, sometimes scalloped, usually grey antenna pectinate, sometimes with long sensillae, with two
or brown, typically with some prominent lines, small discal or more scale rows per segment, less than half forewing
dot usually present; hindwing small, often with eyespots, length. THORAX: with metathoracic tympanum; with
usually with some pink or purple shading; hind tibial spurs prominent dorsal tuft, usually brown through centre; wings
short, hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: smooth and heteroneurous, forewing rectangular, brown or grey with
somewhat blunt, rarely boldly patterned. many pale lines throughout, subterminal line at costa a
Similar taxa: Similar sphingids usually have a more sharply prominent crescent followed by some warm brown shading;
pointed abdomen and more prominent proboscis. hindwing rounded, dull grey or brown; hind tibial spurs
Taxonomic references: Tuttle 2007 short, hind tarsal spines absent. ABDOMEN: relatively
slender and smooth, with prominent anal tuft.
Sphingidae, Macroglossinae (Fig. 228) Similar taxa: Pygaerinae can be separated from other
Superfamily: Bombycoidea noctuoids by wing pattern stout thorax and relatively
Number of Canadian species: 28 spp. throughout Canada slender abdomen with prominent anal tuft, and hairy eye.
Genera: Aellopos, Amphion, Darapsa, Deidamia, Taxonomic references: Handfield 1999
Deilephila, Erinnyis, Eumorpha, Hemaris, Hyles,
Proserpinus, Sphecodina, Xylophanes Notodontidae, Notodontinae (Fig. 230)
Abundance: common, at lights or diurnal Superfamily: Noctuoidea
Quick recognition: Large to medium-sized thick-bodied Number of Canadian species: 18 spp. throughout Canada,
moths, abdomen usually tapered, sometimes with anal most diverse in the East
tufts, usually at least one of the wings with bright colours Genera: Cerura, Furcula, Gluphisia, Hyperaeschra,
or bold patterns, sometimes transparent, forewing elongate Nerice, Notodonta, Odontosia, Pheosia
and pointed, hindwing much smaller. Specific identification Abundance: common, at lights
can be challenging. Quick recognition: Medium-sized stout, hairy moths,
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; forewing sometimes with prominent scale tuft in middle
head scales rough; proboscis naked; labial palps usually of inner margin, often boldly patterned with black and
ascending, usually short, tufted; antenna filiform, white. Specific identification is easy in the east, sometimes
sometimes with long sensillae, with two or more scale challenging in the west.
rows per segment, variable in length. THORAX: wings Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; compound eye sometimes
heteroneurous, elongate and pointed, sometimes scalloped, hairy; chaetosemata absent; head scales rough; proboscis
variable in colour and pattern, typically with some bold naked, often reduced; labial palps ascending or porrect,
pattern or bright colours, centre of wing sometimes short, tufted; antenna pectinate, sometimes with long
transparent; hindwing small, boldly patterned or brightly sensillae, with two or more scale rows per segment, less
coloured; hind tibial spurs usually short, hind tarsal spines than half forewing length. THORAX: with metathoracic
present. ABDOMEN: smooth and tapered, sometimes with tympanum; often with dorsal tuft; wings heteroneurous,

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forewing often with apex projecting well beyond anal sensillae, with two scale rows per segment, rarely one
angle, often with prominent tuft along inner margin, pattern scale row, half forewing length or less. THORAX: with
variable, sometimes boldly marked with black and white; metathoracic tympanum; often with dorsal scale tuft; wings
hindwing rounded to square, paler, sometimes with partial heteroneurous, forewing sometimes with apex projecting
forewing pattern; hind tibial spurs short, hind tarsal spines well beyond anal angle, sometimes with slightly scalloped
sometimes visible. ABDOMEN: stout and very hairy. outer margin, pattern variable, reniform spot often a thin
Similar taxa: Notodontinae can be separated from other curved line; hindwing rounded to square, paler, often
noctuoids by wing pattern, few other noctuoids have a with dark markings at anal angle; hind tibial spurs usually
prominent tuft along the inner margin of the forewing. short, hind tarsal spines usually present. ABDOMEN:
Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004c thick and hairy, sometimes with dorsal scale tuft, rarely
(western spp.); Handfield 1999 (eastern spp.) boldly patterned.
Similar taxa: Heterocampinae can be separated from other
Notodontidae, Phalerinae (Fig. 231) noctuoids by wing pattern, especially the slender curved
Superfamily: Noctuoidea reniform spot.
Number of Canadian species: 11 spp. across Canada, most Taxonomic references: Handfield 1999
diverse in the East
Genera: Datana, Ellida, Nadata, Peridea Notodontidae, Nystaleinae (Fig. 233)
Abundance: common, at lights Superfamily: Noctuoidea
Quick recognition: Medium-sized stout, hairy moths, Number of Canadian species: 5 spp. from AB to NS
thorax typically with a prominent dorsal tuft. Specific Genera: Dasylophia, Symmerista
identification is easy except in Datana. Abundance: uncommon to common, at lights
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; Quick recognition: Medium-sized stout moths, forewing
head scales rough; proboscis naked, often reduced; labial often with irregular white edging along the outer half of
palps usually ascending, short, tufted; antenna filiform or the costa. Specific identification requires dissection in
pectinate, often with long sensillae, with two scale rows Symmerista.
per segment, half forewing length or less. THORAX: Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent;
with metathoracic tympanum; often with dorsal scale head scales rough; proboscis naked, sometimes reduced;
tuft; wings heteroneurous, forewing sometimes with labial palps ascending or porrect, often short, slender;
apex projecting well beyond anal angle, sometimes more antenna filiform or pectinate, usually with long sensillae,
squared, sometimes with slightly scalloped outer margin, with two scale rows per segment, half forewing length or
sometimes with prominent tuft along inner margin, pattern greater. THORAX: with metathoracic tympanum; usually
variable, often yellow and brown; hindwing rounded to with dorsal scale tuft; wings heteroneurous, forewing
square, paler, sometimes with partial forewing pattern on somewhat elongate, sometimes with slightly scalloped
inner margin; hind tibial spurs usually short, hind tarsal outer margin, costa often with irregular white margin along
spines present. ABDOMEN: thick and hairy, sometimes costa; hindwing rounded, drab, unpatterned; hind tibial
with dorsal scale tuft. spurs often long, hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN:
Similar taxa: Phalerinae can be separated from other thick and hairy, sometimes with dorsal scale tuft.
noctuoids by wing pattern. Similar taxa: Nystaleinae can be separated from other
Taxonomic references: Handfield 1999 noctuoids by wing pattern, elongate forewings, and slender
labial palps.
Notodontidae, Heterocampinae (Fig. 232) Taxonomic references: Handfield 1999
Superfamily: Noctuoidea
Number of Canadian species: 19 spp. across Canada, most Erebidae, Lymantriinae (Fig. 234, 235)
diverse in the East Superfamily: Noctuoidea
Genera: Heterocampa, Hyparpax, Lochmaeus, Number of Canadian species: 17 spp. throughout Canada
Macrurocampa, Misogada, Oligiocentria, Schizura Genera: Dasychira, Euproctis, Gynaephora, Leucoma,
Abundance: common, at lights Lymantria, Orgyia
Quick recognition: Medium-sized stout, hairy moths, Abundance: uncommon to common, at lights, sometimes
forewing typically with curved slender reniform spot. diurnal
Specific identification is usually easy. Quick recognition: Medium-sized and very hairy moths,
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; forewing is usually triangular, forelegs often very hairy
head scales rough; proboscis naked, sometimes reduced; and held prominently forwards at rest, females in some
labial palps ascending or porrect, short, at least slightly species wingless. Specific identification can be challenging
tufted; antenna filiform or pectinate, usually with long in Dasychira and Orgyia.

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Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; (western spp.); Handfield 1999 (eastern spp.)
head scales usually rough; proboscis naked, sometimes
reduced; labial palps variable in orientation, short, tufted; Erebidae, Arctiinae, Arctiini (Fig. 237)
antenna usually pectinate, usually with long sensillae, with Superfamily: Noctuoidea
many scale rows per segment, less than half forewing Number of Canadian species: 82 spp. throughout Canada.
length. THORAX: with metathoracic tympanum; wings Genera: Acerbia, Apantesis, Arctia, Cisseps, Ctenucha,
heteroneurous, females sometimes apterous; forewing Cycnia, Dodia, Estigmene, Euchaetes, Gnophaela,
usually triangular, typically grey, brown, reddish, or Grammia, Halysidota, Haploa, Holoarctia, Hyphantria,
white, often with dark jagged antemedial, postmedial, and Leptarctia, Lophocampa, Neoarctia, Pararctia, Parasemia,
subterminal lines; hindwing rounded, usually unpatterned; Phragmatobia, Platarctia, Platyprepia, Pygarctia,
forelegs often prominently hairy, hind tibial spurs short, Pyrrharctia, Spilosoma, Turuptiana, Tyria, Utetheisa,
hind tarsal spines sometimes present. ABDOMEN: thick Virbia
and hairy, sometimes with dorsal scale tuft. Abundance: common at lights, some species are diurnal
Similar taxa: The combination of densely hairy forelegs Quick recognition: Medium-sized erebids, usually stout,
and forewing pattern is usually diagnostic. In species with forewing elongate to triangular, forewing often boldly or
a pure white wing, Lymantriinae can usually be separated brightly patterned, or pure white. Specific identification is
from similar looking Arctiini by the lack of patterning on often easy, but is challenging in a few genera like Grammia
the abdomen. and Virbia.
Taxonomic references: Handfield 1999 (eastern spp.); Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli usually present; chaetosemata
Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004c (western spp.) absent; head scales usually rough; proboscis naked,
rarely reduced; labial palps usually porrect or slightly
Erebidae, Arctiinae, Lithosiini (Fig. 236) descending, usually short, often tufted; antenna usually
Superfamily: Noctuoidea pectinate, usually with long sensillae, usually with two
Number of Canadian species: 13 spp. throughout Canada. scale rows per segment, usually less than half the forewing
Genera: Acsala, Bruceia, Cisthene, Clemensia, Crambidia, length. THORAX: with metathoracic tympanum; wings
Eilema, Hypoprepia, Lycomorpha heteroneurous, forewing usually stout, sometimes triangular
Abundance: common at lights, some species are diurnal or elongate, apex squared or acute, usually either boldly
Quick recognition: Small to medium-sized erebids, patterned with bright colours, or pure white; hindwing
forewing usually slender, hindwing usually relatively rounded, sometimes boldly patterned and brightly coloured,
broad, forewing pattern either boldly patterned, drab grey, otherwise drab; hind tibial spurs short, hind tarsal spines
or pure white. Specific identification is easy, except in present. ABDOMEN: smooth or hairy, usually boldly
Crambidia. patterned.
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent; chaetosemata absent; Similar taxa: Most Arctiini have distinctive wing patterns
head scales smooth, rarely rough; proboscis naked, rarely and aren`t easily confused with other taxa. Some of the
absent; labial palps ascending or porrect, short, rarely species that have pure white wings can be confused with
tufted; antenna filiform, rarely pectinate, usually with Lymantriinae, and can usually be separated by having a
long sensillae, with two scale rows per segment, half the boldly patterned abdomen.
forewing length or less. THORAX: with metathoracic Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004c
tympanum; wings heteroneurous, forewing usually slender, (western spp.); Handfield 1999 (most eastern spp.);
apex usually squared, either boldly patterned with bright Schmidt 2009b (Grammia); Zaspel et al. 2008 (Virbia)
colours, drab grey, or pure white, rarely with all wing
scales raised making it translucent; hindwing triangular Erebidae, Herminiinae (Fig. 238)
to squared, usually relatively broad, sometimes boldly Superfamily: Noctuoidea
patterned and brightly coloured, otherwise drab; hind tibial Number of Canadian species: 48 spp. across Canada
spurs usually short, hind tarsal spines usually present. Genera: Bleptina, Chytolita, Idia, Lascoria, Macrochilo,
ABDOMEN: smooth, rarely hairy, sometimes boldly Palthis, Phalaenophana, Phalaenostola, Reabotis,
patterned. Redectis, Renia, Tetanolita, Zanclognatha
Similar taxa: Brightly coloured species are easy to separate Abundance: common, at lights
from all others by forewing pattern. The more drably Quick recognition: Small to moderate-sized erebids with
patterned species can be separated from superficially a triangular forewing, reniform spot and antemedial,
similar crambids by the lack of a scaled proboscis. More postmedial, and subterminal lines usually prominent, labial
broad winged species can be confused with Herminiinae, palps often large and ascending, often with large scale tufts
but are easily separated by forewing pattern. on legs in males. Specific identification can be difficult.
Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004c Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent;

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head scales rough or smooth on vertex, usually smooth Abundance: common, at lights
on frons; proboscis naked; labial palps usually ascending, Quick recognition: Moderate-sized erebids with a broad
long, often slender, sometimes tufted; antenna filiform, hindwing and either a triangular or slender brownish
rarely pectinate, rarely with a subapical thickening and forewing, often with a bulge in the middle of the outer
hook, with two scale rows per segment, variable in margin or with the costa slightly concave. Specific
length. THORAX: with metathoracic tympanum; wings identification is not usually difficult.
heteroneurous, forewing usually triangular, sometimes Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent;
with bulge in outer margin, rarely notched, yellow, brown, head scales rough, rarely smooth; proboscis naked; labial
or grey, pattern variable, usually with prominent reniform palps usually porrect or ascending, long to very long, tufted,
spot and antemedial, postmedial, and subterminal lines; rarely slender; antenna filiform, with long sensillae, with
hindwing rounded to squared, often with some patterning, two scale rows per segment, typically greater than half
sometimes with a continuation of the forewing pattern; hind forewing length. THORAX: with metathoracic tympanum;
tibial spurs variable in length, hind tarsal spines present. wings heteroneurous, forewing either triangular or slender,
ABDOMEN: smooth. often with bulge in outer margin or with the costa slightly
Similar taxa: Herminiinae are similar to several other concave, brownish, with prominent lines and often with
noctuid subfamilies and can usually be separated from dark spots; hindwing rounded to squared, usually broad
them by forewing pattern. relative to forewing, usually drab brown; hind tibial spurs
Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004c usually short, hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN:
(western spp.); Handfield 1999 (eastern spp.) smooth, often with dorsal scale tuft.
Similar taxa: The lack of a scaled proboscis and presence
Erebidae, Pangraptinae (Fig. 239) of a metathoracic tympanum will separate Hypeninae from
Superfamily: Noctuoidea superficially similar Crambidae. It can be separated from
Number of Canadian species: 2 spp. from AB to NS similar erebids by wing pattern.
Genera: Ledaea, Pangrapta Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004c
Abundance: uncommon to rare, at lights or diurnal (western spp.); Handfield 1999 (eastern spp.)
Quick recognition: Ledaea perditalis is easily recognized by
the grey forewings with dark lower half of the postmedial Erebidae, Rivulinae (Fig. 241)
line and dark slanted mark at the apex and with sharply Superfamily: Noctuoidea
produced apex and bulge in the outer margin. Pangrapta Number of Canadian species: 2 spp. across Canada
decoralis has a similar shaped forewing that varies in Genera: Oxycilla, Rivula
colour but always has a prominent broad dark band that Abundance: uncommon to common, at lights
edges the inside of the postmedial line and has prominent Quick recognition: Both species are small with fairly
reniform spots on both the forewing and hindwing. blunt wings. Rivula propinqualis has a yellow forewing
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent; with fine dark oblique medial and postmedial lines and
head scales rough or smooth; proboscis naked; labial prominent grey smeared blotch bordering the medial line
palps ascending, long, slender; antenna filiform, with long at the costa. The rarer Oxycilla malaca is light brown with
sensillae, with two scale rows per segment, roughly half darker brown markings in the medial and terminal areas
forewing length or less. THORAX: with metathoracic and with a prominent curved pale postmedial line.
tympanum; wings heteroneurous, forewing with a bulge Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent;
in outer margin, and a produced apex, grey or brown, head scales usually rough on frons, smooth on vertex;
reniform spot may be prominent, antemedial, postmedial proboscis naked; labial palps porrect, long, tufted; antenna
and subterminal lines often prominent; hindwing filiform, with long sensillae, with two scale rows per
rounded, sometimes slightly scalloped, sometimes with a segment, usually less than half forewing length. THORAX:
continuation of the forewing pattern; hind tibial spurs long, with metathoracic tympanum; wings heteroneurous,
hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: smooth. forewing fairly blunt, either yellow with thin dark oblique
Similar taxa: Pangraptinae are similar to several other medial and postmedial lines, or brown with darker brown
erebids and can be separated from them by forewing shading in medial and terminal areas and a pale curved
pattern. postmedial line; hindwing may slightly excavated along
Taxonomic references: Handfield 1999 outer margin, drab; hind tibial spurs long, hind tarsal spines
sometimes visible. ABDOMEN: smooth.
Erebidae, Hypeninae (Fig. 240) Similar taxa: The characteristic forewing pattern will
Superfamily: Noctuoidea separate Rivulinae from all other similar erebids.
Number of Canadian species: 19 spp. across Canada Taxonomic references: Handfield 1999
Genera: Colobochyla, Hypena, Lomanaltes, Melanomma

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Erebidae, Scoliopteryginae (Fig. 242) Number of Canadian species: 2 spp. in extreme southern
Superfamily: Noctuoidea ON and QC
Number of Canadian species: 4 spp. throughout Canada Genera: Hypocala, Hypsoropha
Genera: Alabama, Anomis, Scoliopteryx Abundance: very rare, at lights
Abundance: uncommon to rare, at lights Quick recognition: Hypocala andremona is a rare stray
Quick recognition: Usually moderate-sized noctuids, often with a variable forewing pattern and a prominent black
boldly patterned, usually with at least slightly scalloped hindwing with yellow streaks. Hypsoropha hormos has
forewing. Specific identification is easy. a grey forewing with a series of prominent white dots
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent; composing the lower part of the postmedial line.
head scales usually rough; proboscis naked; labial palps Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent;
ascending, long, at most slightly tufted; antenna filiform or head scales rough or slightly smoothed; proboscis
pectinate, usually with long sensillae, with two scale rows naked; labial palps ascending, long, tufted; antenna
per segment, half forewing the length or less. THORAX: filiform, usually with long sensillae, with two scale
sometimes with slight dorsal scale tuft, with metathoracic rows per segment, usually less than half the forewing
tympanum; wings heteroneurous, forewing variable in length. THORAX: with metathoracic tympanum; wings
shape, usually at least slightly scalloped, with prominent heteroneurous, forewing slightly scalloped on outer margin,
bulge in middle of outer margin, lines thin and prominent; sometimes with bulge in middle of outer margin, variable
hindwing rounded to squared, pattern usually dull; hind in pattern, or grey with a series of prominent white dots
tibial spurs usually long, hind tarsal spines present. composing the lower part of the postmedial line; hindwing
ABDOMEN: smooth to hairy. squared to rounded, black with prominent yellow streaks
Similar taxa: Scoliopteryginae can be separated from or drab brown; hind tibial spurs long, hind tarsal spines
similar erebids by forewing pattern and by the scalloped present. ABDOMEN: smooth, sometimes boldly patterned,
forewing margin. sometimes with dorsal scale tuft.
Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004d Similar taxa: Hypocalinae can be separated from similar
erebids by wing pattern.
Erebidae, Calpinae (Fig. 243) Taxonomic references: Handfield 1999
Superfamily: Noctuoidea
Number of Canadian species: 3 spp. from AB to NS Erebidae, Scolecocampinae (Fig. 245)
Genera: Calyptra, Eudocima, Plusiodonta Superfamily: Noctuoidea
Abundance: uncommon to rare, at lights Number of Canadian species: 4 spp. in S. BC, S. MB,
Quick recognition: Usually moderate-sized erebids, often and S. ON
boldly patterned, with distinct scale tufts on inner margin Genera: Gabara, Nigetia, Phobolosia, Scolecocampa
of forewing. Specific identification is easy. Abundance: rare, at lights
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent; Quick recognition: An odd-assemblage of often boldly-
head scales usually rough; proboscis naked; labial palps patterned small to fairly large noctuids. Specific
ascending, long, slender or tufted; antenna filiform identification is easy.
or pectinate, sometimes with long sensillae, with two Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent;
scale rows per segment, half forewing the length or head scales usually somewhat roughened; proboscis naked;
less. THORAX: sometimes with dorsal scale tuft, with labial palps usually ascending, usually long, tufted; antenna
metathoracic tympanum; wings heteroneurous, forewing filiform, with long sensillae, with two scale rows per
variable in shape, sometimes with prominent bulge in segment, usually less than half forewing length. THORAX:
middle of outer margin, with scale tuft along inner margin, with metathoracic tympanum; wings heteroneurous,
pattern and colour variable; hindwing rounded to squared, forewing variable in shape from elongate with a pointed
pattern usually dull, rarely very contrasting; hind tibial apex to triangular, variable in colour and pattern; hindwing
spurs short, hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: rounded to slightly squared, unpatterned; hind tibial spurs
smooth to hairy, rarely with dorsal scale tuft, rarely brightly long, hind tarsal spines sometimes present. ABDOMEN:
coloured. smooth, rarely with slight dorsal scale tuft.
Similar taxa: Calpinae can be separated from similar Similar taxa: The lack of a scaled proboscis and presence of
erebids by forewing pattern and by the scale tuft along a metathoracic tympanum will separate Scolecocampinae
the inner margin. from superficially similar Crambidae. It can be separated
Taxonomic references: Handfield 1999 from similar erebids by wing pattern.
Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004c,
Erebidae, Hypocalinae (Fig. 244) 2004d
Superfamily: Noctuoidea

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Erebidae, Hypenodinae (Fig. 246) Erebidae, Phytometrinae (Fig. 248)

Superfamily: Noctuoidea Superfamily: Noctuoidea
Number of Canadian species: 9 spp. from AB to NS Number of Canadian species: 7 spp. across southern
Genera: Dyspyralis, Hypenodes, Parahypenodes Canada.
Abundance: common to rare, at lights Genera: Hyperstrotia, Isogona, Phytometra, Spargaloma
Quick recognition: Tiny erebids typically with a prominent Abundance: common, at lights or diurnal
reniform spot and medial line on the forewing, ocelli Quick recognition: An odd-assemblage of boldly-patterned
absent. Specific identification can be challenging. and sometimes colourful small to medium-sized erebids.
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli absent, rarely barely visible; Specific identification is easy.
chaetosemata absent; head scales smooth; proboscis naked; Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent;
labial palps usually ascending, long, slender; antenna head scales usually smooth on vertex, smooth or rough
filiform, sometimes with long sensillae, with two, rarely on frons; proboscis naked; labial palps ascending, long,
three scale rows per segment, usually roughly half forewing usually tufted; antenna filiform, with long sensillae, with
length. THORAX: with metathoracic tympanum; wings two scale rows per segment, usually roughly half forewing
heteroneurous, forewing fairly slender with a slight bulge length. THORAX: with metathoracic tympanum; wings
in outer margin, brown or grey, reniform spot typically heteroneurous, forewing usually somewhat triangular,
prominent, orbicular spot tiny or obscured, medial and apex often pointed, rarely rounded, variable in colour and
subterminal lines often heavily shaded and prominent; pattern but sometimes brightly coloured in yellow and pink;
hindwing squared to pointed at apex; hind tibial spurs long, hindwing somewhat rounded, often unpatterned; hind tibial
hind tarsal spines absent. ABDOMEN: smooth, rarely with spurs long, hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: smooth.
dorsal scale tuft. Similar taxa: The lack of a scaled proboscis and presence
Similar taxa: The combination of size, lack of ocelli, of a metathoracic tympanum will separate Phytometrinae
and presence of a metathoracic tympanum will separate from superficially similar Crambidae. It can be separated
Hypenodinae from all others. from similar erebids by wing pattern.
Taxonomic references: Handfield 1999; Ferguson 1954 Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004d
(Hypenodes)
Erebidae, Erebinae, Toxocampini (Fig. 249)
Erebidae, Boletobiinae (Fig. 247) Superfamily: Noctuoidea
Superfamily: Noctuoidea Number of Canadian species: 2 spp. in BC
Number of Canadian species: 5 spp. throughout Canada Genera: Lygephila, Tathorhynchus
Genera: Metalectra, Mycterophora, Parascotia Abundance: uncommon to rare, at lights
Abundance: uncommon to rare, at lights Quick recognition: Lygephila victoria is a stout, moderate-
Quick recognition: Geometrid-like with broad wings and sized erebid, forewing fairly broad and grey with
similar forewing and hindwing pattern, antenna often antemedial, medial, and subterminal lines well represented
pectinate. Specific identification is fairly easy. at the costa by dark smudges, hindwing with a smudged
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent; darker outer band. Tathorhynchus exsiccata has a narrower
head scales rough or smooth; proboscis naked; labial forewing with a dark mid-basal streak and dark streak
palps porrect or ascending, fairly long, at least somewhat between the small white orbicular and reniform spots, the
tufted; antenna filiform or pectinate, with long sensillae, hindwing is similar to L. victoria.
with two scale rows per segment, usually roughly half Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent;
forewing length. THORAX: with metathoracic tympanum; head scales rough; proboscis naked; labial palps ascending,
wings heteroneurous, forewing very broad and triangular, long, at least slightly tufted; antenna filiform, with long
with prominent jagged antemedial, postmedial, and sensillae, with two scale rows per segment, greater than
subterminal lines; hindwing rounded, with a continuation half the forewing length. THORAX: with dorsal scale
of the forewing pattern; hind tibial spurs long, hind tarsal tuft, with metathoracic tympanum; wings heteroneurous,
spines sometimes present. ABDOMEN: smooth. forewing slightly stout to relatively slender, sometimes
Similar taxa: Boletobiinae can be separated from with prominent bulge in middle of outer margin, most
geometrids by the presence of a metathoracic tympanum. commonly grey with darker suffused antemedial, medial,
They can be separated from other erebids by the forewing and subterminal lines that are expanded at the costa, rarely
pattern. with pale orbicular and reniform spots connected by a black
Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004c streak; hindwing squared, pattern dull with smudged dark
(western spp.); Handfield 1999 (eastern spp.) outer band, sometimes with discal lunule; hind tibial spurs
short, hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: smooth.
Similar taxa: Toxocampini can be separated from similar

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erebids by forewing pattern. present, hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: smooth,
Taxonomic references: Powell & Opler 2009 sometimes with a small dorsal scale tuft.
Similar taxa: Other noctuids with a boldly patterned
Erebidae, Erebinae, Thermesiini (Fig. 250) hindwing typically have a more complex pattern. When
Superfamily: Noctuoidea present, the broad curved black line through the centre of
Number of Canadian species: 2 spp. Neotropical strays the hindwing is diagnostic.
found throughout Canada Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004c,
Genera: Ascalapha, Thysania 2004d
Abundance: very rare, at lights or bait
Quick recognition: Gigantic erebids with boldly patterned Erebidae, Erebinae, Melipotini (Fig. 252)
fore and hindwings. Specific identification is easy. Superfamily: Noctuoidea
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent; Number of Canadian species: 18 spp. across Canada, most
head scales rough; proboscis naked; labial palps ascending, diverse in the West
short, slender; antenna filiform, with two scale rows per Genera: Bulia, Cissusa, Drasteria, Melipotis, Phoberia
segment, less than half forewing the length. THORAX: Abundance: uncommon to common, at lights
with metathoracic tympanum; wings heteroneurous, Quick recognition: Moderate-sized noctuids often with
forewing triangular and pointed, sometimes scalloped, with brightly and boldly patterned hindwings, forewing pattern
a complex pattern, reniform and orbicular spots present, variable but usually complex. Specific identification can
antemedial, medial, postmedial and subterminal lines be challenging.
prominent, grey or brown; hindwing squared, scalloped, Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent;
pattern continuing from the forewing; hind tibial spurs head scales rough; proboscis naked; labial palps ascending,
variable in length, hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: usually short, tufted; antenna filiform, rarely with long
smooth, sometimes slightly patterned. sensillae, with two scale rows per segment, half the
Similar taxa: Nothing is similar. forewing length or greater. THORAX: with metathoracic
Taxonomic references: Covell 1984; Handfield 1999 tympanum; wings heteroneurous, forewing somewhat
square to triangular, variable in pattern, usually with a
Erebidae, Erebinae, Catocalini (Fig. 251) prominent reniform spot, lines typically well marked,
Superfamily: Noctuoidea especially postmedial line, typically grey or brown;
Number of Canadian species: 56 spp. across Canada, most hindwing rounded to squared, often boldly patterned with
diverse in the SE. black and white, yellow, orange, or pink, often drably
Genera: Catocala, Spiloloma patterned; hind tibial spurs usually short, hind tarsal spines
Abundance: common, at lights present. ABDOMEN: smooth.
Quick recognition: Fairly small to very large, forewing Similar taxa: Melipotini can be separated from similar
with a complex pattern of lines and spots, hindwing usually noctuids by wing pattern.
boldly patterned with a bright yellow, orange, red, pink or Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004c
white contrasted with broad curved black bands. Specific (western spp.); Handfield 1999 (eastern spp.)
identification can be challenging, especially in the west.
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent; Erebidae, Erebinae, Euclidiini (Fig. 253)
head scales rough; proboscis naked; labial palps ascending, Superfamily: Noctuoidea
variable in length, often slender; antenna filiform, usually Number of Canadian species: 9 spp. throughout Canada
with long sensillae, with two scale rows per segment, Genera: Caenurgina, Celiptera, Doryodes, Euclidia, Mocis
roughly half the forewing length. THORAX: with Abundance: common, at lights or flushed during the day
metathoracic tympanum; wings heteroneurous, forewing Quick recognition: Moderate-sized noctuids typically with
broad, with squared apex to slightly pointed apex, outer fairly broad wings, forewing usually brown with large
margin usually straight, sometimes with slight medial darker blotches. Specific identification can be challenging.
bulge, pattern complex, antemedial and postmedial lines Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent;
present and usually jagged and black, other lines are often head scales rough or smooth; proboscis naked; labial palps
present, reniform, orbicular and claviform spots often ascending, usually long, usually slender; antenna filiform,
present, ground colour usually grey; hindwing rounded rarely pectinate, sometimes with long sensillae, with two
to slightly squared, either yellow, orange, red, pink, or scale rows per segment, usually half the forewing length
white, contrasted with broad black curved bands along the or greater. THORAX: with metathoracic tympanum; wings
outer margin and through the middle, rarely solid black or heteroneurous, forewing usually broad, rarely slender and
grey with fine jagged lines, fringe usually at least partially pointed, usually brown with large darker blotches in the
contrastingly pale; hind tibial spurs short, hind tibial spines antemedial and postmedial area; hindwing rounded, often

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boldly patterned; hind tibial spurs usually short, hind compound eye, at least somewhat slender; antenna filiform,
tibial spines sometimes present, hind tarsal spines present. rarely pectinate, usually with long sensillae, with two scale
ABDOMEN: smooth. rows per segment, variable in length. THORAX: with
Similar taxa: Euclidiini can be separated from similar metathoracic tympanum, sometimes with dorsal scale tuft;
erebids by wing pattern. wings heteroneurous, forewing usually broad, with squared
Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004c apex, often with a complex pattern of lines, the antemedial
(western spp.); Handfield 1999 (eastern spp.) and postmedial lines are usually present, typically grey
or brown, reniform and orbicular spots often present;
Erebidae, Erebinae, Poaphilini (Fig. 254) hindwing rounded to squared, sometimes scalloped, pattern
Superfamily: Noctuoidea is often continuous with the forewing, rarely with bold
Number of Canadian species: 3 spp. from SK to NS. yellow and black patterning, sometimes drab but at least
Genera: Allotria, Argyrostrotis, Parallelia similar to ground colour of forewing; hind tibial spurs
Abundance: common, at lights usually short, hind tibial spines often present, hind tarsal
Quick recognition: All species with similar triangular spines present. ABDOMEN: fairly smooth, usually with
forewings but with different patterns. Allotria elonympha a small dorsal scale tuft.
has a dark forewing with obscure markings and a yellow Similar taxa: Ophiusini can be separated from similar
hindwing with broad contrasting black border. Argyrostrotis erebids by a combination of wing pattern and usual
anilis is chocolate brown with thin straight lines from anal presence of a small dorsal scale tuft.
angle to nearly medial area of costa and in the upper third Taxonomic references: Handfield 1999
of the postmedial area. Parallelia bistriaris has a brown
forewing with thin, nearly straight pale antemedial and Erebidae, Eulepidotinae (Fig. 256)
postmedial lines and frosty suffusion in the subterminal Superfamily: Noctuoidea
area. Number of Canadian species: 4 spp. in SE Canada.
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent; Genera: Anticarsia, Panopoda
head scales rough; proboscis naked; labial palps Abundance: rare to uncommon, at lights
ascending, short, slender; antenna filiform, with two scale Quick recognition: Moderate-sized, often thick-bodied
rows per segment, variable in length. THORAX: with noctuids with fairly broad wings, forewing with a
metathoracic tympanum; wings heteroneurous, forewing prominent reniform spot and antemedial and postmedial
broad, triangular, with squared apex, the antemedial and lines. Specific identification is usually easy.
postmedial lines are always present; hindwing rounded to Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent;
squared, either solid brown with a paler fringe or boldly head scales usually rough on vertex, rough or smooth on
patterned yellow with broad black outer band; hind tibial frons; proboscis naked; labial palps ascending, roughly
spurs short, hind tibial spines present, hind tarsal spines twice as long as compound eye or longer, usually slender;
present. ABDOMEN: fairly smooth, sometimes with a antenna filiform, usually with long sensillae, with two
small dorsal scale tuft. scale rows per segment, roughly half the forewing length
Similar taxa: These three species can be separated from or greater. THORAX: with metathoracic tympanum; wings
all other erebids by wing pattern. heteroneurous, forewing broad, grey or brownish with a
Taxonomic references: Covell 1984 pale postmedial line, reniform spot usually dark, other
markings variable; hindwing rounded to squared, usually
Erebidae, Erebinae, Ophiusini (Fig. 255) drably patterned; hind tibial spurs long, hind tarsal spines
Superfamily: Noctuoidea present. ABDOMEN: smooth to hairy.
Number of Canadian species: 18 spp. from BC to NS, most Similar taxa: Eulepidotinae can be separated from similar
diverse in SE Canada. erebids by wing pattern.
Genera: Amolita, Euparthenos, Lesmone, Zale Taxonomic references: Covell 1984
Abundance: common, at lights
Quick recognition: Moderate to large, often thick-bodied Euteliidae (Fig. 257)
noctuids usually with fairly broad wings, forewing typically Superfamily: Noctuoidea
with a squared apex, pattern often continuous from Number of Canadian species: 6 spp. in S. BC and from
forewing to hindwing, hindwing rarely boldly patterned SK to NS, most diverse in SE Canada.
with yellow and black. Specific identification can be Genera: Eutelia, Marathyssa, Paectes
challenging in Zale. Abundance: rare to uncommon, at lights
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent; Quick recognition: Moderate-sized noctuids, often with
head scales rough, rarely smooth on frons; proboscis naked; complexly patterned wings, anal area of forewing often
labial palps ascending, usually roughly twice as long as has a curved line, at rest the wings are held out away from

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the body and sometimes rolled. Specific identification is Autographa, Chrysanympha, Ctenoplusia, Diachrysia,
usually easy. Eosphoropteryx, Euchalcia, Exyra, Megalographa, Plusia,
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent; Polychrysia, Pseudeva, Pseudoplusia, Rachiplusia,
head scales rough or smooth; proboscis naked; labial Syngrapha, Trichoplusia
palps ascending or porrect, roughly twice the length of the Abundance: common, at lights, some species at flowers
compound eye or more, usually slender; antenna usually Quick recognition: medium-sized stout noctuids, often with
pectinate, with long sensillae, with two scale rows per prominent thoracic and abdominal scale tufts, forewings
segment, variable in length. THORAX: with metathoracic usually held sharply roof-like at rest, often with a hook
tympanum; wings heteroneurous, forewing fairly slender, at the anal angle, and a prominent silvery stigma in the
with at least a slight bulge on the outer margin, with middle of the forewing. Specific identification is easy for
squared to rounded apex, pattern usually complex, curved most, but can be challenging in Autographa and Syngrapha.
black lines usually present in anal area, with a tiny black Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent;
reniform spot, antemedial and postmedial lines usually head scales usually rough; proboscis naked; labial palps
present; hindwing squared to rounded, sometimes boldly ascending, often long, usually tufted; antenna filiform,
patterned; hind tibial spurs long, hind tarsal spines present. sometimes with long sensillae, with two scale rows per
ABDOMEN: smooth, often boldly coloured. segment, usually greater than half the forewing length.
Similar taxa: Euteliidae can be separated from other THORAX: with metathoracic tympanum; often with
noctuoids by the characteristic wing pattern. prominent dorsal scale tuft; wings heteroneurous, forewing
Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004d at least somewhat triangular, with squared to pointed apex,
anal angle often produced into a hook, variable in colour
Nolidae (Fig. 258) and pattern, though pattern usually complex, silvery stigma
Superfamily: Noctuoidea usually present in middle of forewing, larger metallic
Number of Canadian species: 16 spp. throughout Canada patches often present; hindwing squared to rounded, drab
except the far north. to boldly bicoloured in yellow and brown; hind tibial spurs
Genera: Baileya, Garella, Meganola, Nola, Nycteola usually short, hind tibial spines rarely present, hind tarsal
Abundance: uncommon to rare, at lights spines present. ABDOMEN: smooth, prominent dorsal
Quick recognition: Small noctuoids, forewing usually scale tuft usually present.
grey with darker lines, males sometimes with a small Similar taxa: The combination of quick recognition
basal costal fold, sometimes with raised scales. Specific characters will separate most plusiines from other noctuids.
identification is fairly easy, except in Nycteola which often Taxonomic references: Lafontaine & Poole 1991 (most
requires dissection. spp.); D. Handfield & L. Handfield 2006 (some Plusia).
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli usually absent; chaetosemata
absent; head scales usually smooth; proboscis naked; labial Noctuidae, Bagisarinae (Fig. 260)
palps variable in orientation, variable in length, usually Superfamily: Noctuoidea
tufted; antenna filiform, rarely pectinate, usually with long Number of Canadian species: 3 spp. in southernmost MB,
sensillae, with two scale rows per segment, usually less ON, and QC.
than half the forewing length. THORAX: with metathoracic Genera: Amyna, Bagisara
tympanum; wings heteroneurous, forewing triangular to Abundance: very rare, at lights.
rectangular, with squared to pointed apex, grey to white Quick recognition: medium-sized stout to moderately
with prominent lines, postmedial line typically with a curve stout noctuids, forewing slightly triangular, lines usually
around the reniform area, often with some small patches prominent.
of raised scales, males sometimes with a small basal costal Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent;
fold; hindwing squared to rounded, drab; hind tibial spurs head scales slightly roughened on vertex, smooth on frons;
variable, hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: smooth. proboscis naked; labial palps ascending, short, slender;
Similar taxa: Wing pattern, usual lack of ocelli, and antenna filiform, with two scale rows per segment, greater
presence of metathoracic tympana will separate Nolidae than half the forewing length. THORAX: with metathoracic
from all other similar looking moths. tympanum; wings heteroneurous, forewing somewhat
Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004c triangular, with squared apex, either greyish brown with
(western spp.); Handfield 1999 (eastern spp.) fine yellow medial, postmedial, and subterminal lines
or more mottled brownish with jagged lines; hindwing
Noctuidae, Plusiinae (Fig. 259) broad, drab with discal lunule, sometimes with darker outer
Superfamily: Noctuoidea shading or prominent medial line; hind tibial spurs long,
Number of Canadian species: 60 spp. throughout Canada. hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: smooth.
Genera: Abrostola, Allagrapha, Anagrapha, Argyrogramma, Similar taxa: Bagisarinae can be separated from other

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noctuids by wing pattern. Noctuidae, Pantheinae (Fig. 263)

Taxonomic references: Covell 1984, Handfield 1999 Superfamily: Noctuoidea
(Amyna); Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004c (Bagisara) Number of Canadian species: 7 spp. across Canada.
Genera: Charadra, Colocasia, Panthea
Noctuidae, Eustrotiinae (Fig. 261) Abundance: common, at lights.
Superfamily: Noctuoidea Quick recognition: Stout, hairy noctuids, moderate sized
Number of Canadian species: 8 spp. throughout Canada. to large, eye hairy, forewing grey with darker prominent
Genera: Capis, Cobubatha, Deltote, Prodeltote, Maliattha lines and spots. Specific identification is fairly easy.
Abundance: common, at lights. Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present or absent; chaetosemata
Quick recognition: Small noctuids, usually with boldly- absent; head scales rough; proboscis naked, reduced; labial
marked and often colourful forewings, reniform spot palps porrect, short, densely hairy; antenna filiform or
usually prominent. Specific identification is easy. pectinate, variable number of scale rows per segment,
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent; usually less than half the forewing length. THORAX:
head scales usually smooth; proboscis naked; labial palps with metathoracic tympanum; sometimes with dorsal scale
ascending or porrect, variable in length, usually slender; tuft; wings heteroneurous, forewing somewhat triangular,
antenna filiform, with long sensillae, with two scale rows usually with acute apex, light to dark grey, usually with
per segment, usually less than half the forewing length. darker prominent orbicular and reniform spots, and jagged
THORAX: with metathoracic tympanum; sometimes with lines; hindwing rounded, drab, but usually with some faint
prominent dorsal scale tuft; wings heteroneurous, forewing pattern, usually with a checkered fringe; legs densely
at least somewhat triangular, with squared apex, variable in hairy, hind tibial spurs short, hind tarsal spines present.
colour and pattern, pattern usually complex, reniform spot ABDOMEN: hairy, rarely with dorsal scale tuft.
usually present; hindwing squared to rounded, drab; hind Similar taxa: Pantheinae are easily recognized by the hairy
tibial spurs long, hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: eyes, hairy body, and wing pattern.
smooth, dorsal scale tuft sometimes present. Taxonomic references: Handfield 1999 (eastern spp.);
Similar taxa: The forewing pattern and size will separate Anweiler 2009 (Panthea)
Eustrotiinae from similar noctuids.
Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004d Noctuidae, Dilobinae (Fig. 264)
(most spp.); L. Handfield & D. Handfield 2006 (some Superfamily: Noctuoidea
Capis). Number of Canadian species: 1 sp. (Raphia frater) across
Canada.
Noctuidae, Acontiinae (Fig. 262) Genera: Raphia
Superfamily: Noctuoidea Abundance: common, at lights.
Number of Canadian species: 15 spp. across Canada. Quick recognition: Stout, hairy noctuid, forewing grey
Genera: Ponometia, Spragueia, Tarache with darker, curved antemedial and postmedial lines and
Abundance: uncommon to common, at lights. hollow reniform and orbicular spots, hindwing pale with
Quick recognition: Small noctuids, usually with white and sharpest markings at anal angle.
grey mottled forewings, usually resemble bird-droppings Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli very difficult to see; chaetosemata
at rest. Specific identification is usually easy. absent; head scales rough, sometimes smooth on frons;
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent; proboscis naked; labial palps variable in orientation, short,
head scales smooth; proboscis naked; labial palps at least somewhat tufted; antenna filiform or pectinate,
ascending, short, slender; antenna filiform, sometimes with two scale rows per segment, usually less than half the
long sensillae, with two scale rows per segment, variable forewing length. THORAX: with metathoracic tympanum;
in length. THORAX: with metathoracic tympanum; sometimes with dorsal scale tuft; wings heteroneurous,
sometimes with dorsal scale tuft; wings heteroneurous, forewing slightly triangular, with somewhat acute apex,
forewing slender to somewhat triangular, with squared grey with darker, curved antemedial and postmedial lines
to acute apex, variable in colour and pattern, often good and hollow reniform and orbicular spots; hindwing squared,
bird-dropping mimics; hindwing squared, broad, drab; drab, with sharpest markings at anal angle; legs hairy, hind
hind tibial spurs usually short, hind tarsal spines present. tibial spurs short, hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN:
ABDOMEN: smooth, rarely boldly banded. hairy, sometimes with slight dorsal scale tuft.
Similar taxa: Acontiinae can be separated from similar Similar taxa: This species is easily recognized by its wing
noctuids by wing pattern. pattern.
Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004c, Taxonomic references: Covell 1984; Handfield 1999;
2004d; Lafontaine & Poole 2010 (key to genera) Powell & Opler 2009

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Noctuidae, Balsinae (Fig. 265) Noctuidae, Cuculliinae (Fig. 267)

Superfamily: Noctuoidea Superfamily: Noctuoidea
Number of Canadian species: 3 spp. in southern Canada Number of Canadian species: 18 spp. across Canada,
as far west as SK. especially the southern portions.
Genera: Balsa Genera: Cucullia
Abundance: uncommon, at lights. Abundance: uncommon to common, at lights.
Quick recognition: Small noctuids with broad rectangular Quick recognition: Stout noctuids with sharply pointed
wings, forewing grey with dark medial and postmedial forewing and prominent forward projecting scale tuft
lines prominent on costal half. Specific identification can on thorax, forewing pattern often grey and streaky with
be challenging. most prominent markings along inner margin. Specific
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli usually visible; chaetosemata identification can be challenging.
absent; head scales generally smooth; proboscis naked; Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent;
labial palps usually ascending, usually short, slender; head scales rough, sometimes smooth on frons; proboscis
antenna filiform, rarely pectinate, two scale rows per naked; labial palps ascending, short, tufted; antenna
segment, variable in length. THORAX: with metathoracic filiform, two scale rows per segment, half forewing length
tympanum; sometimes with subtle dorsal scale tuft; wings or greater. THORAX: with metathoracic tympanum;
heteroneurous, forewing rectangular, with square apex, often with prominent forward projecting scale tuft; wings
grey with dark medial and postmedial lines prominent on heteroneurous, forewing elongate and acutely pointed,
costal half; hindwing squared, drab; hind tibial spurs short, often grey and streaky with most prominent markings along
hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: smooth, sometimes inner margin; hindwing usually squared, drab, sometimes
with slight dorsal scale tuft. with dark outer shade; hind tibial spurs short, hind tarsal
Similar taxa: Balsinae are easily recognized by their size spines present. ABDOMEN: smooth, sometimes with
and forewing pattern. dorsal scale tuft.
Taxonomic references: Covell 1984; Handfield 1999 Similar taxa: Cuculliinae are easily recognized by the wing
shape, pattern, and forward projecting scale tuft.
Noctuidae, Acronictinae (Fig. 266) Taxonomic references: Poole 1995 (most spp.); Handfield
Superfamily: Noctuoidea & Handfield 2010 (some spp.)
Number of Canadian species: 54 spp. throughout Canada.
Genera: Acronicta, Agriopodes, Cerma, Harrisimemna, Noctuidae, Amphipyrinae, Amphipyrini (Fig. 268)
Polygrammate, Simyra Superfamily: Noctuoidea
Abundance: common, at lights. Number of Canadian species: 3 spp. across Canada.
Quick recognition: Typically medium-sized stout noctuids Genera: Amphipyra
with white, grey or black forewings, often with dark streaks Abundance: common, at lights.
at the base, near the anal angle and near the apex. Specific Quick recognition: Stout noctuids with rectangular shiny
identification is challenging for some Acronicta groups. forewings, brownish to greyish with closely set orbicular
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent; and reniform spots, the most common species with coppery
head scales rough, sometimes smooth on frons; proboscis hindwing. Specific identification is easy.
naked; labial palps ascending or porrect, short, often tufted; Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent;
antenna filiform, rarely pectinate, rarely with long sensillae, head scales rough, sometimes smooth on frons; proboscis
two scale rows per segment, usually less than half forewing naked; labial palps ascending, usually long, slender;
length. THORAX: with metathoracic tympanum; often antenna filiform, two scale rows per segment, greater
with dorsal scale tuft; wings heteroneurous, forewing than half forewing length. THORAX: with metathoracic
rectangular to triangular, with square to acute apex, white, tympanum; wings heteroneurous, forewing rectangular,
grey, or black with prominent lines and spots, often with shiny, brownish to greyish with closely set orbicular and
dark streaks at the base, near the anal angle and near the reniform spots, lines may be present, sometimes paler
apex; hindwing squared to rounded, drab, sometimes with in subterminal area; hindwing rounded, drab or metallic
discal spot and medial line; hind tibial spurs variable, hind copper; hind tibial spurs short, hind tarsal spines present.
tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: smooth, often with ABDOMEN: smooth, sometimes banded.
dorsal scale tuft, rarely boldly patterned. Similar taxa: Amphipyrini are most easily identified by
Similar taxa: Acronictinae are usually readily identified wing pattern.
by their forewing markings. Taxonomic references: Handfield 1999
Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004c
(western spp.); Handfield 1999 (eastern spp.) Noctuidae, Amphipyrinae, Psaphidini (Fig. 269)
Superfamily: Noctuoidea

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Number of Canadian species: 13 spp. across Canada, more Noctuidae, Oncocnemidinae (Fig. 271)
diverse in southern areas. Superfamily: Noctuoidea
Genera: Acopa, Brachionycha, Copivaleria, Feralia, Number of Canadian species: 62 spp. throughout Canada,
Psaphida most diverse in the West.
Abundance: uncommon, at lights. Genera: Behrensia, Calophasia, Catabena, Pleromelloida,
Quick recognition: Stout, hairy noctuids often with acutely Pseudacontia, Sympistis
pointed forewings, pattern either subdued or complex, Abundance: uncommon to common, at lights, some species
sometimes green, most species active in early spring. diurnal.
Specific identification is easy. Quick recognition: A diverse group of stout noctuids, a
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present or absent; chaetosemata channel is cut across the top of the base of the abdomen,
absent; head scales rough, rarely smooth on frons; best viewed laterally. Specific identification can be very
proboscis naked; labial palps ascending or porrect, short, challenging in Sympistis, but is otherwise easy.
hairy; antenna filiform or pectinate, two scale rows per Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent;
segment, half forewing length or greater. THORAX: with head scales rough, rarely smooth; proboscis naked; labial
metathoracic tympanum; wings heteroneurous, forewing palps ascending, usually short, usually tufted; antenna
often acutely pointed, sometimes broadly triangular with filiform, rarely pectinate with long sensillae, two scale rows
more squared apex, pattern either subdued or complex, per segment, half forewing length or greater. THORAX:
sometimes green, reniform spot usually prominent; with metathoracic tympanum, sometimes with dorsal
hindwing rounded to squared, often with diffuse shading scale tuft; wings heteroneurous, forewing triangular to
and a discal spot; hind tibial spurs short, hind tarsal spines rectangular, variable in pattern, usually grey, lines and spots
present. ABDOMEN: hairy, rarely with dorsal scale tuft, often prominent, sometimes with dark dashes; hindwing
sometimes boldly patterned. rounded to squared, sometimes boldly patterned; hind tibial
Similar taxa: Psaphidini can be separated from other really spurs short, hind tibial spines rarely present, hind tarsal
hairy noctuids by wing shape and pattern. spines present. ABDOMEN: smooth to hairy, rarely with
Taxonomic references: Poole 1995 (all except Acopa); dorsal scale tufts.
Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004c (Acopa and western spp.) Similar taxa: The channel across the base of the abdomen
will separate Oncocnemidinae from most other noctuids.
Noctuidae, Amphipyrinae, Stiriini (Fig. 270) The other noctuids with this channel like some Stiriini
Superfamily: Noctuoidea and Agaristinae have distinctively different wing patterns.
Number of Canadian species: 10 spp. from southern BC Taxonomic references: Troubridge 2008 (Sympistis);
to southern ON. Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004c (most western spp.);
Genera: Annaphila, Azenia, Cirrhophanus, Plagiomimicus, Handfield 1999 (eastern spp.)
Stiria
Abundance: rare, at lights, some species diurnal. Noctuidae, Agaristinae (Fig. 272)
Quick recognition: Moderately slender noctuids, forewing Superfamily: Noctuoidea
triangular, either bright yellow with grey or brown Number of Canadian species: 7 spp. throughout Canada,
markings, or grey to brown, hindwing sometimes boldly most diverse in southern ON.
patterned. Specific identification is easy. Genera: Alypia, Androloma, Eudryas, Psychomorpha
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent; Abundance: uncommon to rare, most species diurnal,
head scales rough or smooth; proboscis naked; labial some at lights.
palps ascending or porrect, usually short, usually tufted; Quick recognition: Most species jet black with large white,
antenna filiform, rarely with long sensillae, two scale rows yellow or red blotches on both wings, Eudryas with a large
per segment, half forewing length or less. THORAX: with white blotch through most of the forewing and a yellow
metathoracic tympanum; wings heteroneurous, forewing hindwing. Specific identification is usually easy.
triangular, some species bright yellow with brown or Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent;
grey markings, others grey to brown, sometimes with head scales rough, rarely smooth; eye rarely slightly hairy,
prominent lines; hindwing rounded to squared, usually proboscis naked; labial palps ascending or porrect, usually
drab, sometimes boldly patterned; hind tibial spurs usually short, hairy; antenna often with an elongate club, rarely
long, hind tarsal spines present, sometimes difficult to see. pectinate with long sensillae, two scale rows per segment,
ABDOMEN: smooth. rarely scale-less, half forewing length or greater. THORAX:
Similar taxa: Stiriini have fairly distinct wing markings. with metathoracic tympanum, usually furry, often with
Taxonomic references: Poole 1995 (all except Annaphila); brightly coloured tegulae, rarely with dorsal scale tuft;
Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004c (Annaphila and western wings heteroneurous, forewing usually triangular, in most
spp.) species jet black with large white or yellow blotches, in

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Eudryas more mottled grey or brown with a broad white antenna filiform, sometimes with long sensillae, two scale
blotch through most of the wing; hindwing rounded to rows per segment, variable in length. THORAX: with
squared, jet black with white blotches in most, rarely metathoracic tympanum; wings heteroneurous, forewing
with a large red blotch, in Eudryas bright yellow with a variable in shape, usually triangular, pattern variable,
brownish border; hind tibial spurs short, hind tibial spines usually boldly patterned or brightly coloured, lines and
sometimes present, hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: spots often prominent; hindwing rounded to squared, often
usually hairy, rarely with dorsal scale tufts, sometimes boldly patterned or brightly coloured; hind tibial spurs
boldly patterned. variable, hind tibial spines often present, hind tarsal spines
Similar taxa: The combination of boldly marked wings present. ABDOMEN: smooth, rarely with dorsal scale tuft.
and size are unmistakeable. Similar taxa: Heliothinae are usually easily separated from
Taxonomic references: Powell & Opler 2009 (most western other noctuids by the wing pattern.
spp.); Covell 1984 (eastern spp.) Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004c, d

Noctuidae, Condicinae (Fig. 273) Noctuidae, Eriopinae (Fig. 275)

Superfamily: Noctuoidea Superfamily: Noctuoidea
Number of Canadian species: 12 spp. throughout Canada. Number of Canadian species: 2 spp. MB to NF.
Genera: Condica, Crambodes, Homophoberia, Leuconycta, Genera: Callopistria
Ogdoconta, Perigea Abundance: uncommon to common, at lights.
Abundance: uncommon to common, at lights. Quick recognition: Small noctuids with wings held sharply
Quick recognition: Somewhat slender-bodied noctuids roof-like at rest, forewing brown with large silver spots or
with variable wing pattern, usually consisting of typical mottled brown and purple, abdomen with a small dorsal
lines and spots, sometimes streaky. Specific identification scale tuft. Specific identification is easy.
is usually easy. Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent;
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent; head scales rough, rarely smooth on frons; proboscis
head scales rough or smooth on vertex, smooth on frons; naked; labial palps usually ascending, short, fairly slender;
proboscis naked; labial palps ascending or porrect, short, antenna filiform, with long sensillae, two scale rows per
slender; antenna filiform, sometimes with long sensillae, segment, roughly half forewing length. THORAX: with
two scale rows per segment, half forewing length or less. metathoracic tympanum; wings heteroneurous, forewing
THORAX: with metathoracic tympanum, usually with triangular, sometimes with a hook at anal angle, brown with
dorsal scale tuft; wings heteroneurous, forewing usually large silver spots or mottled brown and purple; hindwing
triangular, sometimes elongate, pattern variable, lines squared, drab; hind tibial spurs variable, hind tarsal spines
and spots often prominent, markings sometimes streaky; present. ABDOMEN: smooth, with small dorsal scale tuft.
hindwing squared, drab, sometimes with discal lunule; hind Similar taxa: Eriopinae are unmistakeable because of their
tibial spurs long, hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: distinctive forewing pattern.
smooth, usually with dorsal scale tuft. Taxonomic references: Handfield 1999
Similar taxa: Condicinae are best separated from similar
noctuids by wing pattern. Noctuidae, Bryophilinae (Fig. 276)
Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004c Superfamily: Noctuoidea
(western spp.); Handfield 1999 (eastern spp.) Number of Canadian species: 2 spp. in BC and adjacent
AB.
Noctuidae, Heliothinae (Fig. 274) Genera: Cryphia
Superfamily: Noctuoidea Abundance: uncommon to rare, at lights.
Number of Canadian species: 42 spp. across Canada, most Quick recognition: Fairly small, slender noctuids with
diverse in the south and west. mottled greyish wings, antemedial and postmedial lines
Genera: Eutricopis, Helicoverpa, Heliocheilus, Heliothis, as well as orbicular, claviform, and reniform spots usually
Melaporphyria, Pyrrhia, Schinia prominent, a small dorsal scale tuft present on abdomen.
Abundance: uncommon to common, most species diurnal Specific identification is challenging.
at flowers, some species come to lights. Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli usually visible; chaetosemata
Quick recognition: Small to medium-sized noctuids with absent; head scales rough on vertex, smooth on frons;
variable but usually boldly patterned or brightly coloured proboscis naked; labial palps porrect, short, slender;
wings. Specific identification is usually easy. antenna filiform, with long sensillae, two scale rows
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent; per segment, roughly half forewing length. THORAX:
head scales rough, rarely smooth on frons; proboscis with metathoracic tympanum; wings heteroneurous,
naked; labial palps usually ascending, usually short, tufted; forewing with a slightly acute apex, mottled grey with

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prominent antemedial and postmedial lines as well as large and white, or mottled brown with a slightly darker
orbicular, claviform, and reniform spots; hindwing squared, medain area and prominent dark dashes in the lower medial
drab; hind tibial spurs short, hind tarsal spines present. and postmedial areas; hindwing drab grey with some
ABDOMEN: smooth, with small dorsal scale tuft. dark line on outer half; hind tibial spurs long, hind tarsal
Similar taxa: Bryophilinae are best recognized by a spines present. ABDOMEN: smooth, usually with dorsal
combination of forewing pattern and dorsal abdominal scale tuft.
scale tuft. Similar taxa: Our species of Phosphilini are easy to
Taxonomic references: Powell & Opler 2009 recognize by forewing pattern.
Taxonomic references: Covell 1984
Noctuidae, Noctuinae, Pseudeustrotiini (Fig. 277)
Superfamily: Noctuoidea Noctuidae, Noctuinae, Prodenini (Fig. 279)
Number of Canadian species: 2 spp. from AB to NF. Superfamily: Noctuoidea
Genera: Anterastria, Pseudeustrotia Number of Canadian species: 4 spp. across Canada.
Abundance: common, at lights. Genera: Spodoptera
Quick recognition: Small slender noctuids with blunt Abundance: common to rare, at lights, migratory.
wings, forewing either with a slanted pink bar from costa to Quick recognition: A stout medium-sized noctuid with
middle or evenly dark with white reniform spot and white mottled forewing pattern and broad white hindwing with
costal tips of postmedial and subterminal lines. Specific sharp black veins.
identification is easy. Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent;
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent; head scales usually rough on vertex, usually smooth on
head scales smooth, rarely rough on vertex; proboscis frons; proboscis naked; labial palps usually ascending,
naked; labial palps ascending, short, slender; antenna short, usually slender; antenna filiform, two scale
filiform, sometimes with long sensillae, two scale rows rows per segment, variable in length. THORAX: with
per segment, half forewing length or less. THORAX: with metathoracic tympanum, often with dorsal scale tuft; wings
metathoracic tympanum; wings heteroneurous, forewing heteroneurous, forewing elongate, usually with a complex
blunt with square apex, either with a slanted pink bar from mottled pattern; hindwing broad, white with prominent
costa to middle or evenly dark with white reniform spot dark veins; hind tibial spurs variable in length, hind tarsal
and white costal tips of postmedial and subterminal lines; spines present. ABDOMEN: smooth to hairy, usually with
hindwing squared with slight indentation in upper half of dorsal scale tuft.
outer margin, drab; hind tibial spurs long, hind tarsal spines Similar taxa: Prodenini can be separated from other
present. ABDOMEN: smooth, with small dorsal scale tuft, noctuids by wing pattern and shape.
rarely boldly patterned. Taxonomic references: Powell & Opler 2009 (western
Similar taxa: Pseudeustrotiini can be separated from other spp.); Handfield 1999 (eastern spp.)
similar noctuids by forewing pattern.
Taxonomic references: Handfield 1999 Noctuidae, Noctuinae, Elaphriini (Fig. 280)
Superfamily: Noctuoidea
Noctuidae, Noctuinae, Phosphilini (Fig. 278) Number of Canadian species: 5 spp. across Canada.
Superfamily: Noctuoidea Genera: Elaphria, Galgula
Number of Canadian species: 2 spp. in extreme southern Abundance: common, at lights.
MB and ON. Quick recognition: Fairly small noctuids with prominent
Genera: Phosphila postmedial line and reniform spot. Specific identification
Abundance: common, at lights. is easy.
Quick recognition: A stout medium-sized noctuid with Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent;
mottled green and grey forewing and large white reniform head scales rough or smooth on vertex, smooth on frons;
spot or mottled brown with a slightly darker medial area proboscis naked; labial palps usually ascending, short,
and prominent dark dashes in the lower medial and slender; antenna filiform, usually with long sensillae, two
postmedial areas. scale rows per segment, roughly half forewing length.
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli usually visible; chaetosemata THORAX: with metathoracic tympanum, sometimes
absent; head scales rough on vertex, smooth on frons; with dorsal scale tuft; wings heteroneurous, forewing
proboscis naked; labial palps ascending or porrect, variable rectangular or triangular, variable in pattern, reniform spot
in length, slender; antenna filiform, two scale rows per and postmedial line typically prominent; hindwing squared,
segment, half forewing length or greater. THORAX: with drab; hind tibial spurs variable in length, hind tarsal spines
metathoracic tympanum; wings heteroneurous, forewing present. ABDOMEN: smooth, rarely with dorsal scale tuft.
triangular, either mottled green and grey, reniform spot Similar taxa: Elaphriini can be separated from similarly

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sized noctuids by forewing pattern. Quick recognition: Stout noctuids with usually with streaky
Taxonomic references: Handfield 1999 forewing pattern and U-shaped reniform spot. Specific
identification is easy.
Noctuidae, Noctuinae, Caradrinini (Fig. 281) Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent;
Superfamily: Noctuoidea head scales rough; proboscis naked; labial palps ascending,
Number of Canadian species: 10 spp. across Canada. short, slender or tufted; antenna filiform, usually with
Genera: Caradrina, Protoperigea, Proxenus long sensillae, two scale rows per segment, usually
Abundance: uncommon, at lights. greater than half forewing length. THORAX: with
Quick recognition: Fairly small noctuids with subdued metathoracic tympanum, often with dorsal scale tuft;
pattern. Specific identification can be challenging. wings heteroneurous, forewing somewhat rectangular,
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent; pattern usually streaky, reniform spot usually U-shaped;
head scales rough, rarely smooth on frons; proboscis naked; hindwing squared to rounded, drab; hind tibial spurs
labial palps usually ascending, usually short, slender or variable, hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: hairy to
tufted; antenna filiform, sometimes with long sensillae, smooth, sometimes with dorsal scale tuft.
two scale rows per segment, usually longer than half Similar taxa: All of our Actinotiini have distinctive
forewing length. THORAX: with metathoracic tympanum, forewing patterns.
sometimes with dorsal scale tuft; wings heteroneurous, Taxonomic references: Lafontaine & Troubridge 2004
forewing rectangular or triangular, sometimes fairly (Alastria); Handfield 1999 (Iodopepla); Troubridge &
elongate, variable in pattern, though usually subdued; Lafontaine 2004c (Nedra)
hindwing broad, squared, usually pale; hind tibial spurs
short, hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: smooth. Noctuidae, Noctuinae, Phlogophorini (Fig. 284)
Similar taxa: Caradrinini can be difficult to characterize, Superfamily: Noctuoidea
though some species can be easily separated from other Number of Canadian species: 4 spp. across Canada
noctuids by wing pattern. Genera: Conservula, Euplexia, Phlogophora
Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004c, d Abundance: common, at lights.
Quick recognition: Stout noctuids often with a broad
Noctuidae, Noctuinae, Dypterygiini (Fig. 282) V-shaped blotch through the centre of the forewing,
Superfamily: Noctuoidea at rest the costal edge forms a distinct crease. Specific
Number of Canadian species: 3 spp. from AB to NS. identification is easy.
Genera: Dypterygia, Magusa, Trachea Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent;
Abundance: uncommon to rare, at lights. head scales rough; proboscis naked; labial palps usually
Quick recognition: Stout noctuids with varying pattern. ascending, short, slender or tufted; antenna filiform,
Specific identification is easy. often with long sensillae, two scale rows per segment,
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent; usually greater than half forewing length. THORAX: with
head scales rough; proboscis naked; labial palps ascending metathoracic tympanum, with dorsal scale tuft; wings
or porrect, short, slender or tufted; antenna filiform, heteroneurous, forewing triangular, sometimes with an
sometimes with long sensillae, two scale rows per acute apex, often scalloped, often light brown with large
segment, greater than half forewing length. THORAX: with dark brown V-shaped blotch through centre of wing,
metathoracic tympanum, at least with slight dorsal scale reniform spot usually prominent; hindwing squared to
tuft; wings heteroneurous, forewing somewhat rectangular, triangular, often slightly scalloped, with some diffuse lines;
sometimes elongate, variable in pattern; hindwing rounded hind tibial spurs usually short, hind tarsal spines present.
or broadly triangular, drab; hind tibial spurs long, hind ABDOMEN: hairy to smooth, with dorsal scale tuft.
tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: smooth, sometimes Similar taxa: Phlogophorini can be recognized by the
with dorsal scale tuft. forewing pattern and resting posture.
Similar taxa: The three Dypterygiini can be recognized Taxonomic references: Handfield 1999
by their wing pattern.
Taxonomic references: Handfield 1999 Noctuidae, Noctuinae, Apameini (Fig. 285)
Superfamily: Noctuoidea
Noctuidae, Noctuinae, Actinotiini (Fig. 283) Number of Canadian species: 129 spp. throughout Canada
Superfamily: Noctuoidea Genera: Achatodes, Amphipoea, Apamea, Benjaminiola,
Number of Canadian species: 4 spp. in BC and from MB Capsula, Chortodes, Eremobina, Helotropha, Hydraecia,
to NF. Lateroligia, Lemmeria, Loscopia, Macronoctua,
Genera: Alastria, Iodopepla, Nedra Meropleon, Neoligia, Papaipema, Resapamea, Rhizedra,
Abundance: uncommon to rare, at lights. Spartiniphaga, Xylomoia

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Abundance: common, at lights. Metaxaglaea, Mniotype, Parastichtis, Platypolia,

Quick recognition: A diverse group of usually stout Properigea, Psectraglaea, Pseudanarta, Pseudobryomima,
noctuids. Specific identification is challenging in some Pyreferra, Rhizagrotis, Sutyna, Ufeus, Xanthia, Xylena,
groups, but usually easy. Xylotype, Zotheca
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent; Abundance: common, at lights.
head scales rough, rarely smooth on frons; proboscis naked; Quick recognition: A very diverse group of usually
labial palps usually ascending or porrect, usually short, stout noctuids, several genera make up the bulk of the
usually tufted; antenna filiform, usually with long sensillae, overwintering noctuid fauna. Specific identification is
two scale rows per segment, usually greater than half challenging in some groups, but usually easy.
forewing length. THORAX: with metathoracic tympanum, Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent;
often with dorsal scale tuft; wings heteroneurous, forewing head scales rough, rarely smooth on frons; proboscis naked,
usually somewhat rectangular with bulging outer margin, rarely reduced; labial palps ascending or porrect, usually
pattern variable; hindwing variable in shape and pattern, short, usually tufted; antenna filiform, rarely pectinate,
usually drab; hind tibial spurs variable, hind tarsal spines usually with long sensillae, two scale rows per segment,
present. ABDOMEN: hairy to smooth, often with dorsal variable in length. THORAX: with metathoracic tympanum,
scale tuft. sometimes with dorsal scale tuft; wings heteroneurous,
Similar taxa: Apameini are difficult to characterize, it is forewing usually rectangular, pattern variable; hindwing
easiest to eliminate less diverse tribes first. variable in shape and pattern, usually drab; hind tibial spurs
Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004c usually short, hind tibial spines sometimes present, hind
(most western spp.); Handfield 1999 (most eastern spp.); tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: usually hairy, rarely
Mikkola et al. 2009 (Apamea, Lateroligia); Troubridge & with dorsal scale tuft.
Lafontaine 2002 (Neoligia) Similar taxa: Xylenini are difficult to characterize, it is
easiest to eliminate less diverse tribes first.
Noctuidae, Noctuinae, Arzamini (Fig. 286) Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004c, d
Superfamily: Noctuoidea (most spp.); Troubridge & Lafontaine 2007 (Brachylomia);
Number of Canadian species: 3 spp. across Canada Lafontaine & Troubridge 2003 (Cosmia); Schmidt 2010
Genera: Bellura (Enargia); Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004e (Hyppa);
Abundance: common, at lights, associated with wetlands. Troubridge 2006, Troubridge & Lafontaine 2003 (some
Quick recognition: Stout brown large to medium-sized Lithophane); Crabo & Hammond 1997 (Mesogona)
noctuids, abdomen long, reniform spot slanted. Specific
identification is easy. Noctuidae, Noctuinae, Orthosiini (Fig. 288)
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent; Superfamily: Noctuoidea
head scales rough; proboscis naked; labial palps ascending Number of Canadian species: 32 spp. throughout Canada
or porrect, short, tufted; antenna usually pectinate, often Genera: Acerra, Achatia, Admetovis, Crocigrapha, Egira,
with long sensillae, two scale rows per segment, less Himella, Morrisonia, Orthosia, Stretchia
than half forewing length. THORAX: with metathoracic Abundance: common, at lights.
tympanum, with dorsal scale tuft; wings heteroneurous, Quick recognition: Stout noctuids, usually with hairy eyes,
forewing usually triangular, with acute or square apex, relatively small abdomen, most species fly early in the year.
brown with darker markings, reniform spot slanted towards Specific identification is usually fairly easy.
apex; hindwing rounded with square apex, brown with dark Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; eyes usually hairy;
discal spot; hind tibial spurs variable, hind tarsal spines chaetosemata absent; head scales rough; proboscis naked;
present. ABDOMEN: long, hairy. labial palps usually porrect, short, tufted; antenna filiform,
Similar taxa: Arzamini are easily recognized by the sometimes pectinate, often with long sensillae, two scale
forewing shape and pattern. rows per segment, usually more than half forewing length.
Taxonomic references: Handfield 1999 THORAX: with metathoracic tympanum, usually with
dorsal scale tuft; wings heteroneurous, forewing fairly
Noctuidae, Noctuinae, Xylenini (Fig. 287) stout, sometimes with elongate apex, pattern variable;
Superfamily: Noctuoidea hindwing rounded to squared, usually drab; hind tibial spurs
Number of Canadian species: 131 spp. throughout Canada short, hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: relatively
Genera: Agrochola, Anathix, Andropolia, Aseptis, short, hairy, rarely with dorsal scale tuft.
Brachylomia, Cerapoda, Chaetaglaea, Chytonix, Cosmia, Similar taxa: Orthosiini can be separated from other
Dryotype, Enargia, Epidemas, Epiglaea, Eucirroedia, noctuids with hairy eyes by wing pattern and the relatively
Eupsilia, Fagitana, Fishia, Hillia, Homoglaea, Hyppa, short abdomen.
Ipimorpha, Litholomia, Lithomoia, Lithophane, Mesogona, Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004c

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(western spp.); Handfield 1999 (eastern spp.) Trichordestra); Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004c (western
spp.); Handfield 1999 (eastern spp.)
Noctuidae, Noctuinae, Tholerini (Fig. 289)
Superfamily: Noctuoidea Noctuidae, Noctuinae, Leucaniini (Fig. 291)
Number of Canadian species: 3 spp. throughout Canada Superfamily: Noctuoidea
Genera: Cerapteryx, Nephelodes, Tholera Number of Canadian species: 18 spp. throughout Canada
Abundance: common, at lights. Genera: Leucania, Mythimna
Quick recognition: Stout noctuids with hairy eyes and Abundance: common, at lights, usually in open habitats.
pectinate antennae, forewing either shiny bronze or greyish Quick recognition: Stout noctuids with hairy eyes, most
with pale streaks. Specific identification is easy. species with pale yellow to grey streaky forewing pattern.
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; eyes hairy; chaetosemata Specific identification can be challenging in Leucania.
absent; head scales rough; proboscis naked; labial palps Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; eyes hairy; chaetosemata
ascending, short, tufted; antenna pectinate, usually with absent; head scales rough; proboscis naked; labial palps
long sensillae, two or more scale rows per segment, porrect or ascending, short, tufted; antenna filiform,
usually less than half forewing length. THORAX: with sometimes with long sensillae, two scale rows per
metathoracic tympanum; wings heteroneurous, forewing segment, greater than half forewing length. THORAX: with
triangular with square apex, pattern either shiny bronze metathoracic tympanum; wings heteroneurous, forewing
or grey with pale streaks; hindwing squared, with some usually somewhat elongate, pale yellow, brown or grey,
subdued pattern; hind tibial spurs usually short, hind tarsal pattern usually streaky, rarely without streaks and with dark
spines present. ABDOMEN: hairy. dots forming postmedial and antemedial lines; hindwing
Similar taxa: Tholerini can be separated from other noctuids variable in shape, usually drab with darker veins; hind tibial
with hairy eyes by wing pattern and having pectinate spurs short, hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: hairy.
antennae. Similar taxa: Leucaniini can be separated from other
Taxonomic references: Morris 1979 (Cerapteryx); noctuids with hairy eyes by wing pattern.
Handfield 1999, Powell & Opler 2009 (Nephelodes); Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004c
Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004c (Tholera) (most western spp.); Handfield 1999 (eastern spp.)

Noctuidae, Noctuinae, Hadenini (Fig. 290) Noctuidae, Noctuinae, Eriopygini (Fig. 292)
Superfamily: Noctuoidea Superfamily: Noctuoidea
Number of Canadian species: 69 spp. throughout Canada Number of Canadian species: 86 spp. throughout Canada
Genera: Afotella, Anarta, Coranarta, Dargida, Escaria, Genera: Anhimella, Homorthodes, Hydroeciodes,
Hada, Hadena, Hadenella, Lacanobia, Mamestra, Lacinipolia, Lasionycta, Neleucania, Orthodes,
Melanchra, Papestra, Polia, Scotogramma, Sideridis, Protorthodes, Pseudorthodes, Trichocerapoda, Tricholita,
Spiramater, Trichordestra Ulolonche, Zosteropoda
Abundance: common, at lights. Abundance: common, at lights.
Quick recognition: Stout noctuids with hairy eyes, most Quick recognition: Small stout noctuids usually with hairy
species with a dorsal abdominal scale tuft. Specific eyes, pattern usually drab. Specific identification can be
identification is challenging in some genera. difficult.
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; eyes hairy; chaetosemata Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli usually present; eyes usually
absent; head scales rough, rarely smooth on frons; proboscis hairy; chaetosemata absent; head scales rough; proboscis
naked; labial palps variable in orientation, short, usually naked; labial palps usually porrect or ascending, usually
tufted; antenna filiform, usually with long sensillae, two short, tufted; antenna filiform, sometimes pectinate,
scale rows per segment, usually greater than half forewing sometimes with long sensillae, two scale rows per segment,
length. THORAX: with metathoracic tympanum; wings usually greater than half forewing length. THORAX: with
heteroneurous, forewing usually rectangular, pattern metathoracic tympanum; wings heteroneurous, forewing
variable; hindwing variable in shape and pattern; hind tibial usually stout with square apex, usually brown or grey,
spurs usually short, hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: reniform and orbicular spots usually present, antemedial,
hairy, usually with dorsal scale tuft. postmedial, and subterminal lines usually present; hindwing
Similar taxa: Hadenini can be separated from other noctuids squared, drab; hind tibial spurs short, hind tarsal spines
with hairy eyes by wing pattern and the usual presence of present. ABDOMEN: hairy, dorsal scale tuft rarely present.
a dorsal abdominal scale tuft. Similar taxa: Eriopygini can be separated from other
Taxonomic references: Lafontaine et al. 1987 (Coranarta); noctuids with hairy eyes by wing pattern and by their
Troubridge & Crabo 2002 (Hada, Hadena); McCabe 1980 smaller size.
(Lacanobia, Melanchra, Papestra, Polia, Spiramater, Taxonomic references: Troubridge & Lafontaine 2004c

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(most western spp.); Handfield 1999 (most eastern spp.); head scales rough, rarely smooth; proboscis naked; labial
Crabo & Lafontaine 2009 (Lasionycta); McCabe 1980 palps usually porrect or ascending, usually short, usually
(some Orthodes) tufted; antenna filiform, rarely pectinate, often with long
sensillae, two scale rows per segment, usually greater
Noctuidae, Noctuinae, Noctuini (Fig. 293) than half forewing length. THORAX: with metathoracic
Superfamily: Noctuoidea tympanum; wings heteroneurous, forewing usually elongate
Number of Canadian species: 306 spp. throughout Canada, with square apex, usually with prominent reniform and
most diverse in the West orbicular spots, often with streaks; hindwing squared,
Genera: Abagrotis, Actebia, Adelphagrotis, Agnorisma, usually drab, rarely boldly patterned with black and yellow;
Agrotis, Anaplectoides, Anicla, Aplectoides, Cerastis, hind tibial spurs short, hind tibial spines present, rarely
Chersotis, Choephora, Coenophila, Copablepharon, absent, hind tarsal spines present. ABDOMEN: hairy to
Cryptocala, Diarsia, Dichagyris, Eucoptocnemis, smooth, dorsal scale tuft rarely present.
Eueretagrotis, Eurois, Euxoa, Feltia, Graphiphora, Similar taxa: Noctuini are easily separated from other
Hemipachnobia, Lycophotia, Noctua, Ochropleura, noctuids by the spiny hind tibia.
Parabagrotis, Parabarrovia, Paradiarsia, Peridroma, Taxonomic references: Lafontaine 1998 (Abagrotis,
Prognorisma, Pronoctua, Protogygia, Protogygia, Adelphagrotis, Agnorisma, Anaplectoides, Aplectoides,
Protolampra, Pseudohermonassa, Rhyacia, Setagrotis, Cerastis, Chersotis, Choephora, Coenophila, Cryptocala,
Spaelotis, Tesagrotis, Xestia Diarsia, Eueretagrotis, Eurois, Graphiphora,
Abundance: common to abundant, at lights, especially in Hemipachnobia, Lycophotia, Noctua, Ochropleura,
open areas. Parabagrotis, Parabarrovia, Paradiarsia, Prognorisma,
Quick recognition: Stout noctuids with a spiny hind tibia, Pronoctua, Protolampra, Pseudohermonassa, Rhyacia,
forewings usually tightly overlapping and flat over the Setagrotis, Spaelotis, Tesagrotis, Xestia); Lafontaine 2004
back at rest. Specific identification can be very difficult (Actebia, Agrotis, Anicla, Copablepharon, Eucoptocnemis,
in some genera. Feltia, Peridroma, Protogygia); Lafontaine 1987 (most
Diagnosis: HEAD: ocelli present; chaetosemata absent; Euxoa); Lafontaine & Troubridge 2010 (some Euxoa)

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Fig  1.  Vertex  of  head.     Fig.  2.    Roughly  scaled  head.  

Fig.  3.  Smoothly  scaled  head.   Fig.  4.    Frons  of  head.  

Fig.  5.    Compound  eye.   Fig.  6.    Hairy  compound  eye.  

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Fig.  7.    Ocellus.   Fig.  8.    Eye  cap.  

Fig.  9.    Antenna  with  no  scales.   Fig.  10.    Antenna  with  1  scale  row  per  
antennal  segment.  

Fig.  11.  Antenna  with  2  scale  rows  per   Fig.  12.    Antenna  with  scales  not  in  rows.  
antennal  segment.  

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Fig.  13.    Antenna  less  than  ½  forewing  length.   Fig.  14.    Antenna  greater  than  ½  forewing  
length.  

Fig.  15.  Antenna  greater  than  the  forewing   Fig.  16.  Antenna  greater  than  twice  the  
length.   forewing  length.  

Fig.  17.  Antennal  sensillae.   Fig.  18.    Filiform  antenna  

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Fig.  19.    PecLnate  antenna.   Fig.  20.    Antenna  with  an  elongate  club.  

Fig.  21.  Hooked  antennae.   Fig.  22.  Antenna  with  an  abrupt  club.  

Fig.  23.  Ascending  labial  palps.   Fig.  24.    Porrect  labial  palps.  

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Fig.  25.    Descending  labial  palps.   Fig.  26.    Un-­‐tuRed  labial  palps.  

Fig.  27.  Long  maxillary  palps.   Fig.  28.  Short  maxillary  palps.  

Fig.  29.  Naked  proboscis.   Fig.  30.    Scaled  proboscis.  

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Fig.  31.    Proboscis  absent.   Fig.  32.    Dorsal  thoracic  scale  tuR.  

Fig.  33.  Wings  reduced.   Fig.  34.  Wings  normally-­‐sized.  

Fig.  35.  Raised  scales  on  the  forewing.   Fig.  36.    Costal  fold.  

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Fig.  37.    Notched  wings.   Fig.  38.    Forewing  with  a  single  colour.  

Fig.  39.  Forewing  with  more  than  one   Fig.  40.  Reniform  spot.  
colour.  

Fig.  41.  Orbicular  spot.   Fig.  42.    Claviform  spot.  

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Fig.  43.    Discal  spot.   Fig.  44.    Antemedian  line.  

Fig.  45.  Median  line.   Fig.  46.  Postmedian  line.  

Fig.  47.  Subterminal  line.   Fig.  48.    Forewing  with  streaks.  

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Fig.  49.    Long  hindwing  fringe.   Fig.  50.    Short  hindwing  fringe.  

Fig.  51.  Hindwing  tail.   Fig.  52.  Boldly  marked  hindwing  of  similar  
paZern  to  forewing.  

Fig.  53.  Drab  hindwing  of  different  paZern   Fig.  54.    Discal  lunule.  
to  forewing.  

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Fig.  55.    Tibial  spur.   Fig.  56.    Tibial  spines.  

Fig.  57.  Tarsal  spines  present.   Fig.  58.  Tarsal  spines  absent.  

Fig.  59.  Thorax  width.   Fig.  60.    Forewing  length.  

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Fig.  61.    Forewing  width.   Fig.  62.    Hindwing  width.  

Fig.  63.  RaLo  forewing  length  :  thorax  width.   Fig.  64.  RaLo  forewing  length  :  forewing  
width.  

Fig.  65.  RaLo  forewing  width  :  hindwing   Fig.  66.    ScleroLzed  ovipositor.  
width.  

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Fig.  67.    Dorsal  abdominal  scale  tuR.   Fig.  68.    Boldly  paZerned  abdomen.  

Fig.  69.  Drab  abdomen.   Fig.  70.  Micropterigidae:  Epimartyria  

auricrinella  

Fig.  71.  Eriocraniidae:  Eriocrania   Fig.  72.    AcanthopterocteLdae:  

semipurpurella   Acanthopteroctetes  bimaculata.  

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Fig.  73.    Hepialidae:  Sthenopis  purpurascens   Fig.  74.    NepLculidae:  S5gmella  corylifoliella  

Fig.  75.  Opostegidae:  Pseudopostega  sp.   Fig.  76.  Heliozelidae:  An5spila  freemani  

Fig.  77.  Adelidae:  Adela  ridingsella   Fig.  78.    Prodoxidae,  Lamproniinae:  Lampronia  
russatella  

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Fig.  79.    Prodoxidae,  Prodoxinae:  Prodoxus   Fig.  80.    Incurvariidae:  Paraclemensia  

quinquepunctella   acerifoliella  

Fig.  81.    Tischeriidae:  Coptotriche   Fig.  82.    Tineidae:  Haplo5nea  insectella  

citrinipennella  

Fig.  83.    Acrolophidae:  Amydria  effrentella   Fig.  84.    Psychidae:  Dahlica  walshella  

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Fig.  85.    Douglasiidae:  Tinagma   Fig.  86.    Bucculatricidae:  Bucculatrix  

obscurofasciella   canadensisella  

Fig.  87.    Gracillariidae,  Gracillariinae:   Fig.  88.    Gracillariidae,  LithocolleLnae:  

Parornix  sp.   Cameraria  aceriella  

Fig.  89.    Gracillariidae,  PhyllocnisLnae:   Fig.  90.    YponomeuLdae,  AZevinae:  ADeva  

Phyllocnis5s  populiella   aurea  

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Fig.  91.    YponomeuLdae,  YponomeuLnae:   Fig.  92.    YponomeuLdae,  Argyresthiidae:  

Swammerdamia  sp.   Argyresthia  pygmaeella  

Fig.  93.    Ypsolophidae,  Ypsolophinae:   Fig.  94.    Ypsolophidae,  Ochsenheimeriinae:  

Ypsolopha  canariella   Ochsenheimeria  vaculella  

Fig.  95.    Plutellidae:  Plutella  xylostella   Fig.  96.    Acrolepiidae:  Acrolepiopsis  assectella  

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Fig.  97.    Glyphipterigidae:  Glyphipterix   Fig.  98.    Heliodinidae:  Neoheliodines  

haworthana   nyctaginella  

Fig.  99.    Bedelliidae:  Bedellia  somnulenta   Fig.  100.    LyoneLidae:  Lyone5a  prunifoliella  

Fig.  101.    ElachisLdae,  StenomaLnae:   Fig.  102.    ElachisLdae,  Ethmiinae:  Ethmia  

Antaeotricha  leucillana   mon5cola  

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Fig.  103.    ElachisLdae,  Depressariinae:   Fig.  104.    ElachisLdae,  ElachisLnae:  

Agonopterix  fusciterminella   Elachista  sp.  

Fig.  105.    ElachisLdae,  Agonoxenidae:   Fig.  106.    XylorycLdae,  Scythridinae:  Scythris  

Blastodacna  curvilineella   eboracensis  

Fig.  107.    Chimbachidae:  Dasytromma   Fig.  108.  Chimbachidae:  Dasytromma  

salicella  male   salicella  female  

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Fig.  109.    Glyphidoceridae:  Glyphidocera   Fig.  110.    Oecophoridae:  Eido  trimaculella  

lithodoxica  

Fig.  111.    Batrachedridae:  Batrachedra   Fig.  112.    Coleophoridae,  Coleophorinae:  

praeangusta   Coleophora  trifolii  

Fig.  113.    Coleophoridae,  Momphinae:   Fig.  114.  Coleophoridae,  Blastobasinae:  

Mompha  eloisella   Blastobasis  glandulella  

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Fig.  115.    Coleophoridae,  Pterolonchinae:   Fig.  116.    AutosLchidae:  Oegoconia  

Pterolonche  inspersa   deauratella  

Fig.  117.    AmphisbaLdae:  Machimia   Fig.  118.    Cosmopterigidae:  Cosmopterix  

tentoriferella   clemensella  

Fig.  119.    Gelechiidae,  Gelechiinae:   Fig.  120.  Gelechiidae,  Dichomeridinae:  

Chionodes  lugubrella   Dichomeris  ?gnoma  

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Fig.  121.    Limacodidae:  Tortricidia  testacea   Fig.  122.    Zygaenidae:  Harrisina  americana  

Fig.  123.    Sesiidae,  Tinthiinae:  Pennise5a   Fig.  124.    Sesiidae,  Sesiinae:  Sesia  5biale  
marginata  

Fig.  125.    Cossidae:  Acossus  populi   Fig.  126.  ChoreuLdae:  Choreu5s  pariana  

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Fig.  127.    Tortricidae,  Tortricinae,  Tortricini:   Fig.  128.    Tortricidae,  Tortricinae,  

Acleris  briDania   Cnephasiini:  Eana  argentana  

Fig.  129.    Tortricidae,  Tortricinae,  Cochylini:   Fig.  130.    Tortricidae,  Tortricinae,  Euliini:  
Cochylis  voxcana   Eulia  ministrana  

Fig.  131.    Tortricidae,  Tortricinae,   Fig.  132.  Tortricidae,  Tortricinae,  Archipini:  

Sparganothini:  Sparganothis  re5culatana   Archips  myricanus  

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Fig.  133.    Tortricidae,  ChlidanoLnae:   Fig.  134.    Tortricidae,  OlethreuLnae,  

Thaumatographa  youngiella   Endotheniini:  Endothenia  affiliana  

Fig.  135.    Tortricidae,  OlethreuLnae,   Fig.  136.    Tortricidae,  OlethreuLnae,  

Bactrini:  Bactra  verutana   OlethreuLni:  Pseudosciaphila  duplex  

Fig.  137.    Tortricidae,  OlethreuLnae,   Fig.  138.  Tortricidae,  OlethreuLnae,  

Enarmoniini:  Ancylis  burgessiana   Eucosmini:  Eucosma  serpentana  

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Fig.  139.    Tortricidae,  OlethreuLnae,   Fig.  140.    Urodidae:  Wockia  asperipunctella  

GrapholiLni:  Cydia  pomonella  

Fig.  141.    Schreckensteiniidae:   Fig.  142.    Epermeniidae:  Ochromolopis  

Schreckensteinia  festaliella   ramapoella  

Fig.  143.    AluciLdae:  Alucita  adriendenisi   Fig.  144.  Pterophoridae:  Oidaematophorus  

eupatorii  

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Fig.  145.    Copromorphidae:  Ellabella  editha   Fig.  146.    Carposinidae:  Bondia  crescentella  

Fig.  147.    Pyralidae,  Galleriinae:  Galleria   Fig.  148.    Pyralidae,  Chrysauginae:  Galasa  
mellonella   nigrinodis  

Fig.  149.    Pyralidae,  Pyralinae:  Hypsopygia   Fig.  150.  Pyralidae,  Epipaschiinae:  Pococera  
costalis   aplastella  

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Fig.  151.    Pyralidae,  PhyciLnae:  Dioryctria   Fig.  152.    Crambidae,  Scopariinae:  Eudonia  
reniculelloides   alpinus  

Fig.  153.    Crambidae,  Crambinae,  Argyriini:   Fig.  154.    Crambidae,  Crambinae,  Crambini:  
Urola  nivalis   Crambus  bidens  

Fig.  155.    Crambidae,  Crambinae,   Fig.  156.  Crambidae,  Crambinae,  

Haimbachiini:  Chilo  plejadellus   Prionapterygini:  Pseudoschoenobius  
opalescalis  

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Fig.  157.    Crambidae,  Schoenobiinae:   Fig.  158.    Crambidae,  Acentropiinae:  

Donacaula  amblyptepennis   Elophila  icciusalis  

Fig.  159.    Crambidae,  OdonLinae:   Fig.  160.    Crambidae,  EvergesLnae:  

Mimoschinia  rufofascialis   Everges5s  pallidata  

Fig.  161.    Crambidae,  Glaphyriinae:   Fig.  162.  Crambidae,  PyrausLnae:  Anania  

Xanthophysa  psychialis   coronata  

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Fig.  163.    Crambidae,  Spilomelinae:   Fig.  164.    Thyrididae:  Thyris  maculata  

Choristos5gma  plumbosignalis  

Fig.  165.    Hesperiidae,  Eudaminae:   Fig.  166.    Hesperiidae,  Pyrginae:  Erynnis  

Epargyreus  clarus   icelus  

Fig.  167.    Hesperiidae,  Heteropterinae:   Fig.  168.  Hesperiidae,  Hesperiinae:  Hesperia  

Carterocephalus  palaemon   assiniboia  

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Fig.  169.    Hesperiidae,  Megathyminae:   Fig.  170.    Papilionidae,  Parnassiinae:  

Megathymus  streckeri   Parnassius  smintheus  

Fig.  171.    Papilionidae,  Papilioninae:  Papilio   Fig.  172.    Pieridae,  Pierinae:  Pieris  oleracea  
canadensis  

Fig.  173.    Pieridae,  Coliadinae:  Colias   Fig.  174.  Lycaenidae,  MileLnae:  Feniseca  
philodice   tarquinius  

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Fig.  175.    Lycaenidae,  Lycaeninae:  Lycaena   Fig.  176.    Lycaenidae,  Theclinae:  Callophrys  
hyllus   polia  

Fig.  177.    Lycaenidae,  PolyommaLnae:   Fig.  178.    Riodinidae:  Apodemia  mormo  

Glaucopsyche  lygdamus  

Fig.  179.    Nymphalidae,  Libytheinae:   Fig.  180.  Nymphalidae,  Danainae:  Danaus  

Libytheana  carinenta   plexippus  

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Fig.  181.    Nymphalidae,  LimeniLdinae:   Fig.  182.    Nymphalidae,  Heliconiinae:  

Limeni5s  arthemis   Argynnis  aphrodite  

Fig.  183.    Nymphalidae,  Apaturinae:   Fig.  184.    Nymphalidae,  Nymphalinae:  

Asterocampa  cel5s   Aglais  milber5  

Fig.  185.    Nymphalidae,  Satyrinae:  Cercyonis   Fig.  186.  Drepanidae,  ThyaLrinae:  

pegala   Pseudothya5ra  cymatophoroides  

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Fig.  187.    Drepanidae,  Drepaninae:  Drepana   Fig.  188.    Uraniidae,  Epipleminae:  Callizia  
arcuata   amorata  

Fig.  189.    Geometridae,  LarenLinae,   Fig.  190.    Geometridae,  LarenLinae,  

Cidariini:  Dysstroma  hersiliata   Hydriomenini:  Rheumaptera  subhastata  

Fig.  191.    Geometridae,  LarenLinae,   Fig.  192.  Geometridae,  LarenLinae,  

Stamnodini:  Stamnodes  topazata   Xanthorhoini:  Xanthorhoe  ferrugata  

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Fig.  193.    Geometridae,  LarenLinae,   Fig.  194.    Geometridae,  LarenLinae,  

Asthenini:  Venusia  cambrica   Operophterini:  Operophtera  bruceata  

Fig.  195.    Geometridae,  LarenLinae,   Fig.  196.    Geometridae,  LarenLinae,  

Euduliini:  Eubaphe  mendica   Eupithecini:  Eupithecia  annulata  

Fig.  197.    Geometridae,  LarenLinae,   Fig.  198.  Geometridae,  Sterrhinae:  

Lobophorini:  Lobophora  nivigerata   Cyclophora  pendulinaria  

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Fig.  199.    Geometridae,  Geometrinae:   Fig.  200.    Geometridae,  Archiearinae:  

Synchlora  aerata   Archiearis  infans  

Fig.  201.    Geometridae,  Ennominae,   Fig.  202.    Geometridae,  Ennominae,  

Alsophilini:  Alsophila  pometaria   Cassymini:  Nematocampa  resistaria  

Fig.  203.    Geometridae,  Ennominae,   Fig.  204.  Geometridae,  Ennominae,  Boarmini:  

Macariini:  Macaria  sexmaculata   Ectropis  crepuscularia  

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Fig.  205.    Geometridae,  Ennominae,   Fig.  206.    Geometridae,  Ennominae,  

Melanolophini:  Eufidonia  convergaria   Bistonini:  Biston  betularia  

Fig.  207.    Geometridae,  Ennominae,  BapLni:   Fig.  208.    Geometridae,  Ennominae,  

Lomographa  semiclarata   Caberini:  Cabera  exanthemata  

Fig.  209.    Geometridae,  Ennominae,   Fig.  210.  Geometridae,  Ennominae,  Azelini:  

Angeronini:  Xanthotype  ur5caria   Pero  honestaria  

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Fig.  211.    Geometridae,  Ennominae,   Fig.  212.    Geometridae,  Ennominae,  

Nacophorini:  Phaeoura  quernaria   Campaeini:  Campaea  perlata  

Fig.  213.    Geometridae,  Ennominae,   Fig.  214.    Geometridae,  Ennominae,  

Ennomini:  Ennomos  magnaria   Epiranthidini:  Spodolepis  substriataria  

Fig.  215.    Geometridae,  Ennominae,   Fig.  216.  Geometridae,  Ennominae,  

Lithinini:  Petrophora  subaequaria   Anagogini:  Probole  amicaria  

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Fig.  217.    Geometridae,  Ennominae,   Fig.  218.    Lasiocampidae,  Macromphaliinae:  

Ourapterygini:  Caripeta  angus5orata   Tolype  velleda  

Fig.  219.    Lasiocampidae,  Lasiocampinae:   Fig.  220.    Mimallonidae:  Cicinnus  

Malacosoma  disstria   melsheimeri  

Fig.  221.    Bombycidae,  Apatelodinae:   Fig.  222.    Bombycidae,  Bombycinae:  Bombyx  

Apatelodes  torrefacta   mori  

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Fig.  223.    Saturniidae,  Ceratocampinae:   Fig.  224.    Saturniidae,  Hemileucinae:  

Anisota  virginiensis   Hemileuca  nevadensis  

Fig.  225.    Saturniidae,  Saturniinae:   Fig.  226.    Sphingidae,  Sphinginae:  Ceratomia  

Callosamia  promethea   amyntor  

Fig.  227.    Sphingidae,  Smerinthinae:   Fig.  228.    Sphingidae,  Macroglossinae:  

Smerinthus  jamaicensis   Amphion  floridensis  

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Fig.  229.    NotodonLdae,  Pygaerinae:  Clostera   Fig.  230.  NotodonLdae,  NotodonLnae:  

strigosa   Gluphisia  lintneri  

Fig.  231.  NotodonLdae,  Phalerinae:  Datana   Fig.  232.  NotodonLdae,  Heterocampinae:  

ministra   Schizura  ipomoea  

Fig.  233.  NotodonLdae,  Nystaleinae:   Fig.  234.  Erebidae,  Lymantriinae:  Orgyia  

Symmerista  leucitys   an5qua  male  

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Fig.  235.  Erebidae,  Lymantriinae:  Orgyia   Fig.  236.  Erebidae,  ArcLinae,  Lithosiini:  
an5qua  female   Hypoprepia  miniata  

Fig.  237.  Erebidae,  ArcLinae,  ArcLini:   Fig.  238.  Erebidae,  Herminiinae:  

Grammia  parthenice   Phalaenostola  hanhami  

Fig.  239.  Erebidae,  PangrapLnae:  Pangrapta   Fig.  240.  Erebidae,  Hypeninae:  Hypena  
decoralis   bijugalis  

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Fig.  241.  Erebidae,  Rivulinae:  Rivula   Fig.  242.  Erebidae,  Scoliopteryginae:  

propinqualis   Scoliopteryx  libatrix  

Fig.  243.  Erebidae,  Calpinae:  Calyptra   Fig.  244.  Erebidae,  Hypocalinae:  Hypocala  
canadensis   andremona  

Fig.  245.  Erebidae,  Scolecocampinae:   Fig.  246.  Erebidae,  Hypenodinae:  Hypenodes  

Phobolosia  anfracta   palustris  

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Fig.  247.  Erebidae,  Boletobiinae:  Metalectra   Fig.  248.  Erebidae,  Phytometrinae:  

discalis   Spargaloma  sexpunctata  

Fig.  249.  Erebidae,  Erebinae,  Toxocampini:   Fig.  250.  Erebidae,  Erebinae,  Thermesiini:  
Lygephila  victoria   Ascalapha  odorata  

Fig.  251.  Erebidae,  Erebinae,  Catocalini:   Fig.  252.  Erebidae,  Erebinae,  MelipoLni:  
Catocala  concumbens   Drasteria  adumbrata  

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Fig.  253.  Erebidae,  Erebinae,  Euclidiini:   Fig.  254.  Erebidae,  Erebinae,  Poaphilini:  
Caenurgina  erechtea   Parallelia  bistriaris  

Fig.  255.  Erebidae,  Erebinae,  Ophiusini:  Zale   Fig.  256.  Erebidae,  EulepidoLnae:  Panopoda  
lunata   rufimargo  

Fig.  257.  Euteliidae:  Marathyssa  inficita   Fig.  258.  Nolidae:  Baileya  dormitans  

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Fig.  259.  Noctuidae,  Plusiinae:  Autographa   Fig.  260.  Noctuidae,  Bagisarinae:  Bagisara  
mappa   rec5fascia  

Fig.  261.  Noctuidae,  EustroLinae:  MaliaDha   Fig.  262.  Noctuidae,  AconLinae:  Ponome5a  
concinnimacula   candefacta  

Fig.  263.  Noctuidae,  Pantheinae:  Panthea   Fig.  264.  Noctuidae,  Dilobinae:  Raphia  frater  
furcilla  

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Fig.  265.  Noctuidae,  Balsinae:  Balsa   Fig.  266.  Noctuidae,  AcronicLnae:  Acronicta  
tristrigella   superans  

Fig.  267.  Noctuidae,  Cuculliinae:  Cucullia   Fig.  268.  Noctuidae,  Amphipyrinae,  

convexipennis   Amphipyrini:  Amphipyra  pyramidoides  

Fig.  269.  Noctuidae,  Amphipyrinae,   Fig.  270.  Noctuidae,  Amphipyrinae,  SLriini:  

Psaphidini:  Feralia  jocosa   S5ria  rugifrons  

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Fig.  271.  Noctuidae,  Oncocnemidinae:   Fig.  272.  Noctuidae,  AgarisLnae:  Alypia  

Sympis5s  piffardi   langtoni  

Fig.  273.  Noctuidae,  Condicinae:  Leuconycta   Fig.  274.  Noctuidae,  Heliothinae:  Schinia  
lepidula   florida  

Fig.  275.  Noctuidae,  Eriopinae:  Callopistria   Fig.  276.  Noctuidae,  Bryophilinae:  Cryphia  
cordata   cuerva  

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Fig.  277.  Noctuidae,  Noctuinae,   Fig.  278.  Noctuidae,  Noctuinae,  Phosphilini:  

PseudeustroLini:  Pseudeustro5a  carneola   Phosphila  miselioides  

Fig.  279.  Noctuidae,  Noctuinae,  Prodenini:   Fig.  280.  Noctuidae,  Noctuinae,  Elaphriini:  
Spodoptera  frugiperda   Elaphria  alapallida  

Fig.  281.  Noctuidae,  Noctuinae,  Caradrinini:   Fig.  282.  Noctuidae,  Noctuinae,  Dypterygini:  
Protoperigea  pos5cata   Trachea  delicata  

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Fig.  283.  Noctuidae,  Noctuinae,  AcLnoLini:   Fig.  284.  Noctuidae,  Noctuinae,  

Nedra  ramosula   Phlogophorini:  Phlogophora  periculosa  

Fig.  285.  Noctuidae,  Noctuinae,  Apameini:   Fig.  286.  Noctuidae,  Noctuinae,  Arzamini:  
Apamea  amputatrix   Bellura  obliqua  

Fig.  287.  Noctuidae,  Noctuinae,  Xylenini:   Fig.  288.  Noctuidae,  Noctuinae,  Orthosiini:  
Xylena  thoracica   Orthosia  revicta  

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Fig.  289.  Noctuidae,  Noctuinae,  Tholerini:   Fig.  290.  Noctuidae,  Noctuinae,  Hadenini:  
Nephelodes  minians   Polia  propodea  

Fig.  291.  Noctuidae,  Noctuinae,  Leucaniini:   Fig.  292.  Noctuidae,  Noctuinae,  Eriopygini:  
Leucania  lapidaria   Ulolonche  modesta  

Fig.  293.  Noctuidae,  Noctuinae,  Noctuinae:  

Fel5a  herilis  

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