The Ypsolophidae are members of the Superfamily Yponomeutoidea, and have traditionally been grouped as one family with the Plutellidae Family. The genus <i>Ypsolopha</i> comprises all of the North American species in this family, almost all of which occur in the west. These are relatively broad winged moths, mostly larger than plutellids. Several species are markedly variable in forewing color pattern. Larvae are very active and react by rapid wriggling when disturbed. They are specialist feeders in new spring foliage on a wide variety of shrubs and trees, typically in a weak silken shelter. Pupation occurs in dense, envelope-like cocoons.
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Description of Ypsolophidae
The Ypsolophidae are members of the Superfamily Yponomeutoidea, and have traditionally been grouped as one family with the Plutellidae Family. The genus <i>Ypsolopha</i> comprises all of the North American species in this family, almost all of which occur in the west. These are relatively broad winged moths, mostly larger than plutellids. Several species are markedly variable in forewing color pattern. Larvae are very active and react by rapid wriggling when disturbed. They are specialist feeders in new spring foliage on a wide variety of shrubs and trees, typically in a weak silken shelter. Pupation occurs in dense, envelope-like cocoons.
