Lepidoptera
This order consists of moths and butterflies. The name ‘lepido’ means scaly and ‘ptera’ refers to wings. The adults of the Lepidoptera order have scales on their wings and other external parts of their body. Their mouthparts, if they have them, are usually tube-like for sucking liquids such as nectar. They also usually have two pairs of wings. The larvae are often regarded as pests to agriculture. They have mouthparts that are capable of chewing and they mostly feed on plants. The pupae, which is a stage between larvae and adult, relies on its cocoon to be shielded form predators and often use camouflage to avoid being eaten.
Some of the insects of the Lepidoptera order that can be found in Australia are:
Some of the insects of the Lepidoptera order that can be found in Australia are: