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biodiversity explorer
the web of life in southern Africa
Order: Lepidoptera >
Caterpillars (the larvae of moths and butterflies)
A small selection of caterpillars are shown below, mainly common ones that you are likely to encounter.
Unidentified limacodid larva
Family: Limacodidae
Pachypasa
Family: Lasiocampidae
These larvae often are found clumped on trunks and large branches of trees.
Imbrasia cytherea (Pine tree emperor)
Family: Saturniidae
Larva feeding on Watsonia leaf in fynbos.
Theretra capensis (Common striped hawk moth)
Family: Sphingidae
Larva, often found on vines.
Papilio demodocus (Citrus swallowtail)
Family: Papilionidae
Larva can be found on citrus trees.
Aeropetes tulbaghia
Family: Nymphalidae
Acraea horta (Garden acraea)
Larva feed on leaves of the Kiggelaria africana (Wild peach).
