What is lepid?

Lepid refers to a group of insects that belong to the order Lepidoptera, which includes butterflies, moths, and skippers. Lepidoptera means "scale-winged" in Greek, which is a reference to the unique scales that cover the wings and bodies of these insects.

There are approximately 180,000 species of Lepidoptera worldwide, making it one of the largest insect orders. They can be found in a range of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and wetlands.

Lepidoptera have a characteristic life cycle, which includes four stages: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis), and adult (butterfly or moth). Most Lepidoptera larvae are herbivores and feed on leaves, while adults feed on nectar or sap.

Butterflies and moths play important roles in ecosystems as pollinators and as a food source for other organisms. However, they can also cause damage to crops and other plants. Some species are considered pests, while others are endangered or threatened due to habitat loss and climate change.