April 20, 2005

The Caloptilias are in the Gracillariidae

family.  They're little bitty things with plumed endwings.  The caterpillars are leaf miners, working their way between the leaf layers, where they feed and pupate.

To the left is a typical pose.  They appear ever-poised for a round of pushups.

        Caloptilia Moth 

             Species undetermined