What specific ecological niche unites members of the Family Galleriidae, like the wax moth?
Answer
Feeding on wax constructions of social insects
The Family Galleriidae is uniquely defined by the ecological specialization of its members, particularly concerning their diet. Unlike many other moth families whose larvae feed on common resources like leaves or stored grains, the larvae within Galleriidae have evolved a specific adaptation to thrive by consuming the wax constructions and stored materials produced by social insects, predominantly bees and wasps. This highly specialized feeding habit places them in a distinct ecological niche.
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