Caterpillar larva Butterfly

aposematic caterpillar of papilio machaon, in threat pose

butterfly larvae, or caterpillars, consume plant leaves , spend practically of time searching , eating food. although caterpillars herbivorous, few species predators: spalgis epius eats scale insects, while lycaenids such liphyra brassolis myrmecophilous, eating ant larvae.

mutualism: ant tending lycaenid caterpillar

some larvae, of lycaenidae, form mutual associations ants. communicate ants using vibrations transmitted through substrate using chemical signals. ants provide degree of protection these larvae , in turn gather honeydew secretions. large blue (phengaris arion) caterpillars trick myrmica ants taking them ant colony feed on ant eggs , larvae in parasitic relationship.

cryptic countershaded caterpillar of hawkmoth, ceratomia amyntor

caterpillars mature through series of developmental stages known instars. near end of each stage, larva undergoes process called apolysis, mediated release of series of neurohormones. during phase, cuticle, tough outer layer made of mixture of chitin , specialized proteins, released softer epidermis beneath, , epidermis begins form new cuticle. @ end of each instar, larva moults, old cuticle splits , new cuticle expands, rapidly hardening , developing pigment. development of butterfly wing patterns begins last larval instar.

caterpillars have short antennae , several simple eyes. mouthparts adapted chewing powerful mandibles , pair maxillae, each segmented palp. adjoining these labium-hypopharynx houses tubular spinneret able extrude silk. butterfly caterpillars have 3 pairs of true legs on thoracic segments , 6 pairs of prolegs arising abdominal segments. these prolegs have rings of tiny hooks called crochets engaged hydrostatically , caterpillar grip substrate. epidermis bears tufts of setae, position , number of in identifying species. there decoration in form of hairs, wart-like protuberances, horn-like protuberances , spines. internally, of body cavity taken gut, there may large silk glands, , special glands secrete distasteful or toxic substances. developing wings present in later stage instars , gonads start development in egg stage.