Discovery of the Rare 'Bone Collector' Caterpillar in Hawaii
Scientists unveil the 'bone collector' caterpillar, a unique creature that camouflages using insect remains, exclusively found on Oahu, Hawaii.
Carnivorous ‘Bone Collector’ Caterpillars Wear Corpses as Camouflage
Scientific American
Summary
Researchers in Hawaii have discovered a new species of carnivorous caterpillar, dubbed the 'bone collector,' which camouflages itself in the remains of prey. Found exclusively on Oahu, this caterpillar feeds on trapped insects found in spider webs and engages in cannibalism. Its behavior is a unique adaptation, dating back at least 6 million years, raising concerns for its conservation status due to environmental threats. The study highlights the rare dynamic of being both predator and prey within a spider's lair, illuminating the evolutionary marvels of Hawaii's unique ecosystem.
Sources (5)
No summary available for this perspective.
IFL Science·1M· "…Carnivory is one thing, psychopathic terror induction is another."
Scientific American·1M· "…These bone collectors are not quite parasitic, nor are they considered symbiotic with spiders."