What is the Difference Between Butterfly and Moth?

Butterflies and moths belong to the same biological order, Lepidoptera, but they have several differences that can be used to identify and distinguish them. Some of the key differences include:

1. Antennae: Butterflies have thin, straight, and long antennae with club-like tips, while moths have feathery, thick, comb-like antennae.
2. Wings: Butterfly wings are typically brightly colored, while moth wings are often dull in color. Butterflies usually hold their wings together, vertically above their body when resting, while moths tend to hold their wings in a tent-like fashion or horizontally.
3. Body: Moths are generally stockier and have furry bodies, while butterflies are smooth and lean.
4. Resting Wing Position: Moths rest with their wings open, whereas butterflies tend to rest with their wings closed.
5. Activity: Butterflies are active during the day (diurnal), while moths are active at night (nocturnal).
6. Pupa: Both butterflies and moths undergo complete metamorphosis, but butterflies create chrysalises in their pupal stage, while moths pupate in a cocoon.
7. Eyes: Moths have superposition eyes, which reflect light at the same angle that they take it in, while butterflies have apposition eyes.
8. Nocturnal vs Diurnal: Butterflies are diurnal, while moths are nocturnal.

Keep in mind that there are exceptions to these rules, and some butterflies and moths may not fit the general descriptions.

Comparative Table: Butterfly vs Moth

Here is a table comparing the differences between butterflies and moths:

Please note that there are always exceptions to these rules, and some species may not follow these general characteristics.