is an insect of the order Lepidoptera. Like all Lepidoptera, they are notable for their unusual life cycle with a larval caterpillar stage, an inactive pupal stage, and a spectacular metamorphosis into a familiar and colourful winged adult form.

They are important economically as one of the major agents of pollination.

They are nested within the evolutionary tree of moths. Their origins may date back to the Cretaceous Period, ending 65 million years ago.