National Moth Week 2023 -NW Library: Anatomy

Main body parts

The moth’s body consists of three main parts: the head, thorax, and abdomen.

On their head, moths have a set of compound eyes and two antennae that vary in size and shape depending on the species. Most moths also have mouthparts and a long proboscis, which can coil up and acts as their feeding tube.

The abdomen contains important organs, such as the digestive, excretory, and reproductive organs. The moth’s 6 legs have joints and are attached to its thorax.

Lastly, moths typically have two sets of wings: their forewings and their hindwings.

Antennae

Moths have a pair of antennae that vary in size, shape, and complexity. Depending on the species and sex, a moth’s antennae can be large and feathery or skinny and saw edged.

Male moths tend to have larger, more complex antennae than their female counterparts, whose antennae are typically more refined. The enlarged antennae in male moths help detect pheromones of unmated female moths due to the extremely sensitive scent receptors.

Besides mating, the scent receptors on the moths’ antennae also help to detect food sources, alongside helping mediate flight stability. 

Wings

Moths have four wings in total: a pair of forewings and a pair of hindwings. Usually, moths display their wings when in a natural resting position, often covering their abdomens.

There are a small number of moth species in which the females either have no wings or have under-developed wings and are flightless. One example is the March dagger moth. 

Usually, moths have wings that are duller in color compared to butterflies; however, there are many species with bright colors and patterns. Examples are the Madagascan sunset moth and the Giant silkworm moth.