Error message
Unable to fetch location details at this time.
Oleander Hawk-moth Caterpillar
Daphnis nerii
15.5503, 120.816
Field Notes
Description:
What look like eyes are not eyes at all. They are skin patterns called ‘false eyes’ - adapted by these caterpillars as a defense against predators.
Habitat:
Urban garden on adenium (calachuchi) plant.
Notes:
Caterpillars have six pairs of simple eyes (ocelli). Ocelli (also called stemmata) are small, simple eyes that can detect changes in light intensity, but cannot form an image. Ocelli are composed of photoreceptors (light-sensitive cells) and pigments. Ocelli are usually located in two clusters of six eyes on the sides of a larva's head. *** Oleander Hawk Moth caterpillar turn to brown just before pupating.
Reference Links:
Daphnis nerii
Species ID Suggestions
Spotted for Missions
Photographed
PublishedJuly 12, 2013
Comments (44)