Lepidoptera

While technically part of the same order, they are often distinguished by these general traits: Lepidoptera 101 - Irvine Nature Center

Lepidoptera is the massive order of insects that includes . The name comes from the Greek lepidos (scale) and ptera (wing), referring to the microscopic, overlapping scales that cover their bodies and wings like shingles. With roughly 180,000 described species , they make up 10% of all known living organisms, making them the second-largest insect order after beetles. 🧬 Biological Characteristics lepidoptera

They "taste" with olfactory organs on their feet and navigate using compound eyes that can detect polarized light . While technically part of the same order, they

They are holometabolous, meaning they go through a complete life cycle : Egg → Larva (Caterpillar) → Pupa (Chrysalis/Cocoon) → Adult (Imago) . 🦋 Butterflies vs. Moths Moths Most adults have a coiled, straw-like tube

Most adults have a coiled, straw-like tube used to sip nectar and other liquids.

These scales provide color (via pigments or structural light refraction ), insulation, and help with thermoregulation .