Noctuoidea

The Noctuoidea is a superfamily of insects comprising over 160,000 species, overwhelmingly nocturnal and distributed worldwide. These insects, commonly known as moths, are characterized by their stout bodies, often dull coloration for camouflage, and distinctive feathery or thick antennae. Unlike butterflies, moths typically rest with their wings folded over their bodies or extended at their sides.1

The Noctuoidea superfamily includes the large family Noctuidae, or owlet moths, which accounts for over 20,000 species. These moths exhibit a wide range of wingspans, from less than an inch to over a foot. While many adults feed on nectar or fruit, their larvae, or caterpillars, can be quite destructive, feeding on foliage, seeds, stems, or roots. Notable examples include cutworms and armyworms, which can cause significant damage to crops. Moths play a vital role as pollinators and are an important part of food webs.21