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'Coleophoridae' is a family of moths with about 1050 species, the vast majority (about 1000) belonging to the huge genus ''Coleophora'' (numerous splits have been proposed for this immense genus but have not been widely accepted - most of the genus names listed right refer to these proposed new genera). The family is represented on all continents but the majority are found in temperate areas of the Northern Hemisphere.
These are generally very small, slender moths, with the margins of the wings often split into many fronds giving a "fringed" effect. The tiny larvae initially feed internally on the leaves, flowers or seeds of their host plants. When they emerge to feed externally they usually construct a protective silken case, discarding and building new ones as they grow. For this reason the group is often collectively known as 'case moths' or 'case-bearers'.

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External Links

External Links

★ Natural History Museum Lepidoptera genus list

★ Tree of Life