Overview
Cyclotorna is a genus of moths, the sole one of family Cyclotornidae, with five recognized species. The family is endemic to Australia. This family and the closely related Epipyropidae are unique among the Lepidoptera in that the larvae are ectoparasites, the hosts in this case typically being leafhoppers, sometimes scale insects. The larvae of cyclotornids, however, leave the hemipteran host and become predatory on the brood in ant nests, apparently using chemical cues to induce the ants to carry the larvae into the ant nest.
- Dodd, F. P. 1912. Some remarkable ant-friend Lepidoptera. Trans. Entomol. Soc. London (1911):577-590.
- CSIRO Gallery
Taxonomy
The Family Cyclotornidae is further organized into finer groupings including:
- Genus (1): Cyclotorna
- Species: ZipcodeZoo has pages for 5 species and subspecies in the Family Cyclotornidae.
Genera
Cyclotorna
Cyclotorna is a genus of moths, the sole one of family Cyclotornidae, with five recognized species. The family is endemic to Australia. This family and the closely related Epipyropidae are unique among the Lepidoptera in that the larvae are ectoparasites, the hosts in this case typically being leafhoppers, sometimes scale insects. The larvae of cyclotornids, however, leave the hemipteran host and become predatory on the brood in ant nests, apparently using chemical cues to induce the ants to carry the larvae into the ant nest. [more]
At least 5 species and subspecies belong to the Genus Cyclotorna.
More info about the Genus Cyclotorna may be found here.
Sources
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