Pytiliidae

Pytiliidae is a family of small, often brightly colored, tropical and subtropical butterflies. They are part of the superfamily Papilionoidea and are known for their distinctive wing patterns and behaviors. The family includes approximately 100 species, which are distributed across various regions of the world, including Africa, Asia, and Australia.

The larvae of Pytiliidae feed on a variety of plants, including members of the Fabaceae and Malvaceae families. They are often considered pests in agricultural settings due to their feeding habits. The adults are known for their rapid flight and agile maneuvers, which they use to evade predators and to forage for nectar.

Pytiliidae butterflies are often characterized by their long, slender bodies and large, often metallic wings. The wing patterns can vary widely among species, with some displaying intricate designs and others having more subdued coloration. The family is further divided into several genera, each with its own unique characteristics and distribution.

The taxonomy of Pytiliidae has been a subject of ongoing study, with recent advances in molecular biology providing new insights into the relationships between different genera and species. Despite these advances, the family remains a diverse and fascinating group of insects, with much still to be discovered about their biology and ecology.