Importance Score: 45 / 100 🔵
NEW YORK — A recently discovered carnivorous caterpillar species, notable for adorning itself with the remains of its prey, has earned the moniker “bone collector.” This unique predatory caterpillar, found exclusively on the Hawaiian island of Oahu, has captivated scientists with its unusual feeding habits and distinctive appearance.
The “Bone Collector”: A Carnivorous Caterpillar
This peculiar insect navigates spiderwebs, preying on captured insects. It then utilizes the body parts of its victims to embellish its silken casing.
Unique Behavior
“There are other meat-eating caterpillars that do lots of crazy things, but this takes the cake,” explained study author Dan Rubinoff from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. The “bone collector” displays an exceptionally unique predatory behavior among caterpillars.
Camouflage and Predation
Researchers hypothesize that this macabre decoration may serve as camouflage, enabling the carnivorous caterpillar to pilfer the spider’s trapped meals undetected.
Caterpillar Case Construction
Numerous caterpillars indigenous to Hawaii employ silk glands to construct protective cases adorned with lichen, sand, and other materials. However, this species distinguishes itself as the first to utilize ant heads and fly wings in its construction.
Astonishing Cases
“It really is an astonishing type of case,” stated Steven Montgomery, an entomology consultant in Hawaii, unaffiliated with the research.
Discovery and Rarity
The findings were published in the journal Science. Over two decades of observation, scientists have located only 62 of these predatory caterpillars.
Cannibalistic Tendencies
- Predatory caterpillars are exceptionally rare.
- The bone collectors of Hawaii exhibit cannibalistic behavior.
Evolutionary History and Conservation
The “bone collector’s” origins trace back at least 6 million years, predating the Hawaiian Islands themselves. Today, these carnivorous caterpillars inhabit an isolated mountain forest alongside invasive species, emphasizing the need for focused conservation efforts.
Conservation Concerns
“There is really a concern that we need to do better with conservation,” Rubinoff urged.