Libytheinae

Libytheinae
Libytheana carinenta, American snout
Nettle tree (Libythea celtis), Bulgaria
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Lepidoptera
Family: Nymphalidae
Subfamily: Libytheinae
Boisduval, 1833
Genera

The Libytheinae are a nymphalid subfamily known as snout butterflies, containing two valid genera and about ten species: six in Libythea and four in Libytheana. The common name refers to the thick labial palps (pedipalps) that look like a "snout" in this subfamily. In older literature, this group was recognized as the family Libytheidae. They are medium-sized and typically a drab brown.[1] The front legs are reduced in length and the ventral hindwings are cryptically colored to help them blend in with their surroundings.[1] While at rest, the members of this subfamily keep their wings tightly closed to resemble dead leaves.[1]

  1. ^ a b c Daniels, Jaret C. (2003). Butterflies of the Carolinas. Cambridge, MN: Adventure Publications, Inc. p. 12. ISBN 1-59193-007-3.