Elachista

/ɛləˈkɪstə/ noun

Definition

A genus of tiny moths, often with narrow wings and delicate features, belonging to the family Elachistidae.

Etymology

From Greek 'elachista' meaning 'smallest' or 'least.' The genus name reflects how extremely small these moths are compared to most other insects.

Kelly Says

Elachista moths are so tiny that many species were only discovered in the last few decades—their smallness means they were literally invisible to earlier naturalists, showing how much of nature still hides in plain sight.

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