Description of Zygaenidae
The Zygaenidae are members of the Superfamily Zygaenoidea. About 1,000 species are described worldwide, and the family is relatively well studied owing to the fascinating, colorful forms, diurnal habits, and mimicry associated with the chemical ecology. All New World species are in the subfamily Procridinae. These diurnal moths are avoided by birds and other predators because both adults and larvae are able to release hydrocyanic acid (HCN), which has enabled many to take part in complex mimicry relationships. Adults are variable in size, and have a well-developed proboscis and commonly visit flowers. Wings are highly variable in shape and are often metallic colored. Eggs are deposited in rows, clusters, or overlapping patches and sometimes covered with scales. Larvae are stout and broad, and feed on numerous angiosperm plant families, probably mostly host specific.