idia

Idia is a genus of moths in the family Erebidae, commonly referred to as litter moths. It resides within the subfamily Herminiinae and includes several described species distributed primarily in temperate regions of North America and Eurasia.

Members are small to medium-sized moths, typically 15 to 25 millimeters in wingspan. They tend to have muted brown, gray, or tan coloration with irregular markings that help them blend into leaf litter.

Ecology and life cycle: Idia species are nocturnal. Adults are attracted to lights and mate on vegetation. Larvae feed on detritus, dead leaves, and sometimes lichens on rocks or bark; some species feed on decaying wood or herbaceous debris.

Taxonomy and classification: The genus Idia is part of Erebidae; in older classifications it was placed in Noctuidae. The taxonomy of noctuoids has undergone revisions based on molecular data, leading to reclassification of several genera including Idia into Erebidae.

Species and distribution: The genus contains multiple described species, with several common in North America. Detailed species lists vary by authority and region. Related topics include lists of moths of North America.