Caterpillars and Other Larvae

Caterpillars are the larvae of butterflies and moths. They are usually soft and cylindrical, with three pairs of legs in front, and five or less prolegs, those fleshy appendages on their abdomen used to hold on to things. Sawfly larvae look like caterpillars, but they have more than five prolegs. Their adults look similar to wasps. There are many other larval forms of insects, some of which we will show under Other Larvae as we find and photograph them. Beetle larvae can resemble caterpillars or look totally different. Larvae may look like their adult, or completely different. They undergo a series of molts, growing with each stage. These stages are called instars, the number of which depend on the species and other factors.

Disclaimer: The content of NatureSearch is provided by dedicated volunteer Naturalists of Fontenelle Nature Association who strive to provide the most accurate information available. Contributors of the images retain their copyrights. The point of contact for this page is: Loren Padelford.

Home > Insects > Caterpillars and Other Larvae