A moth is an insect from the order Lepidoptera. Moths, like all insects, lack an internal skeleton and do not have bones; instead, they are invertebrates. Their segmented bodies consist of a head, thorax, and abdomen, to which their wings and legs are connected. Additionally, their wings are covered in tiny scales giving them their characteristic appearance.
Numerous species of moths play an essential role in pollination. Several moth species are active at night and carry out pollination after dark, thus maintaining an uninterrupted cycle of pollination. New research even suggests nocturnal moths may visit more plant species than active bees. They also play an important food item for songbirds, mammals, and other insects.
There's tons of folklore and symbolism associated with moths. Some of which include death and the after life being related to nocturnal moths. Moreover, they are also seen as symbols of change and transformation because of the metamorphosis that occurs in their life cycle.
Many moths have camouflaged wing patterns and colors that closely mimic their surroundings, such as leaves and bark. This camouflage helps them avoid detection by predators. Some moths even mimic the appearance of other more dangerous animal like wasps which deters predators. Furthermore, there's species of moths which, during their larval stage, accumulate toxins from plants they eat, making them unpalatable or poisonous to predators. Others produce noxious chemicals as adults for defense.
