Sesioidea

The superfamily Sesioidea comprises approximately 1,200 species of moths. These moths are often diurnal and many have aposematic (warning) coloration.1

The most well-known family within this superfamily is the Sesiidae, commonly known as clearwing or wasp moths. These moths are diurnal flower visitors and frequently exhibit bright colors like yellow, orange, or scarlet. Their wings are typically transparent, and they are striking mimics of wasps. The larvae of Sesiidae are often stem, twig, and root borers, and can be injurious to fruit trees. Another family in this superfamily is Castniidae, which are medium to large diurnal moths found in the New World and Indo-Australian tropics. They are powerful fliers with bright colors and often mimic butterflies and other diurnal moths, while their larvae are typically stem borers.21