Hepialidae (ghost moths or swifts) are, in terms of diversity and distribution, the most successful group of homoneurous primitive moths. The morphology of Fraus is described in some detail with emphasis on the adult moth, and a new interpretation of hepialid male genitalia is presented. Beyond describing and illustrating a primitive hepialid, these observations are intended to serve as reference for the study of the classification of Hepialoidea and lower Lepidoptera.
In the taxonomic revision, based on more than 3000 specimens, the 25 Fraus species are described and diagnosed. The adult moths, as well as male and female genitalia, are richly illustrated, and distribution maps and flight period diagrams are provided for all species. The biology, behaviour, distribution and phylogeny are summarised and discussed.
"They have set a new standard for those preparing revisionary work . . . expect subsequent contributions to be outstanding." DL Wagner, Journal of the Lepidopterists' Society
"Every lepidopterist with concerns in morphology and/or primitive moths will find it invaluable." RHT Mattoni, Journal of Research of the Lepidoptera
"Overall, the presentation of this work is superb . . . this book sets a standard worthy of emulation . . . this work has set an almost impossibly high standard for subsequent titles to meet." IJ Kitching, Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society
"To top off the palatability of this volume, it has a tasteful design and text layouts that makes for easy reading. This book is a must for all reference libraries." O Pellmyr, Quarterly Review of Biology
"It is a unique and highly important study of the early evolution of the Lepidoptera . . . the authors, editors and publishers of the new series . . . can only be congratulated for the publication of the first volume of what appears to be a most promising new series." IM Naumann, Journal of Systematic Zoology and Evolution Research
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