Common hippopotamus. What is the difference between a hippopotamus and a hippopotamus? Origin of hippopotamus and hippopotamus
Like butterflies, moth caterpillars have a camouflage color, the color of which depends on the type of vegetation that is the main food supply of the insect.
The thin bodies are practically naked and have no villi. ABOUT differ amazing ability to pretend to be branches, stems, cuttings and other parts of the plant, which makes them quite difficult to recognize even if you are close.
Photo different types surveyors:
Freezing in a protruding position by holding a plant branch with one pair of abdominal legs, they become invisible to their immediate enemies - sparrows, tits, nightingales And other small birds. They achieve such camouflage due to highly developed muscles.
In the event of a fall due to a strong gust of wind or danger, the insect rises along a thread, with the help of which it is attached to leaves and branches.
It is important! Main feature This family of caterpillars has a peculiar arrangement of abdominal legs. They are located on the 6th and 10th (sometimes 5 and 6 or 4 and 5) segment of the body, which explains them unusual way movement, during which the back of the body is pulled towards the front, as if measuring the distance with spans. In fact, this is how they got their name.
The unusual loop-like bending of the body gave birth to another name for this family - they are also often called land surveyor caterpillars.
Differences between different types of land surveyors
The most common types of caterpillars in our country are winter, pine, deciduous (pickled) and gooseberry moths.
Z In the process of growth, the moth goes through 5 stages of development, during which it molts 4 times. It has a characteristic transparent greenish color with a dark line along the entire back and three white stripes on the sides.
In mid-June, winter moth caterpillars descend into the ground and, burrowing 15 cm into the soil, pupate. At the end of August and beginning of September, butterflies appear that are not able to fly, so they climb up tree trunks to mate.
The location for laying is usually small cracks near the buds, into which lay up to 400 eggs.
The pine moth is also green, but it has more lateral white stripes - 5. Pupates late autumn burrowing into the forest floor.
Gooseberry moth in full white with black and yellow inserts. On deciduous trees You can find adult caterpillars of the deciduous moth of a predominantly brown and yellowish color with dark brown spots and a bright yellow stripe on the side.
What plants are affected by moths?
Caterpillars of this order pose a threat to almost all shrubs and plants growing in Russia and the CIS countries.
Activity period pine moth falls on July - September. During this time, the caterpillar manages to cause serious damage pine forests, completely eating the needles of the trees.
Gooseberry eats foliage not only of gooseberries, as its name implies, but also loves to eat currants and hazel bushes in spring and autumn.
Moth-ripped off less picky and feeds on the leaves of most deciduous trees, including fruits.
Winter the moth is the boss enemy of all garden shrubs and trees, including apple trees, pears, currants and raspberries.
Ways to combat moth caterpillars
Greatest danger for gardens and vegetable gardens is a winter moth. About once every 6–8 years, females of this species demonstrate very high fertility, a reproduction outbreak occurs, the duration of which can reach up to 3 years.
One of the most effective ways to combat it is a thorough autumn digging of the soil under fruit trees and shrubs, during which each lump is checked for the presence of pupated larvae.
Attention! The fight against the winter moth does not end there and continues throughout the entire growing season of shrubs and trees.
In addition to regularly digging up the soil once every 2-3 weeks, the most effective methods are:
- Treatment of crowns with solution oleocuprite And DNOCa in early spring until the snow cover completely melts. Drug No. 30 is also effective.
- Spraying plants before flowering with a solution karbofos.
- Treatment with insecticides when 1st generation caterpillars appear.
- Also, the number of winter moth individuals can be easily controlled using an adhesive hunting belt, which is attached directly to the trunks at a distance of 20–30 cm from the ground. A butterfly that climbs tree trunks to lay eggs simply cannot avoid this obstacle. In October, such a belt must be removed and burned.
It is important! One more in a good way, which also does not require almost any complex actions, is to attract birds - sparrows and starlings. Long-term observations show that the presence of birdhouses and feeders in the garden helps to avoid outbreaks of mass reproduction of caterpillars.
As for the pine moth, raking forest litter in autumn period will lead to the death of most of the pupae. Herding domestic pigs too effective method struggle, since insect larvae are their favorite delicacy.
To get rid of gooseberry moth enough to produce regular collection of caterpillars from fruit bushes and trees and their subsequent destruction by burning. The larvae, due to their color, are clearly visible, so such actions will not cause much difficulty. Spraying with arsenic solution will also help. in early spring.
Against ripped off the most effective method fight stands use of adhesive belts.
In Russia, the share of this order of insects is about 12-15% of all Lepidoptera. Due to the fact that some individual species are susceptible to outbreaks of mass reproduction, which are facilitated, in particular, by an increase in average winter temperatures in most of our country, these insects may represent serious danger for horticultural crops and forestry.
We bring to your attention a video about the moth caterpillar:
This article describes the most interesting types of caterpillars.
A caterpillar is a larva of an insect from the order Lepidoptera. The sizes of caterpillars can vary - from a few millimeters to 15 centimeters. These larvae are even poisonous, and therefore touching some species with your hands is life-threatening. In this article we will look at what types of caterpillars there are - beautiful, unusual, huge, with spikes, with a horn, small, furry and others.
Where do caterpillars live?
Most caterpillars live in the ground. Some of these insects live in bodies of water, while others live both on soil and in water, adapting to existence everywhere. There are two categories of larvae depending on their living conditions: secretive and free-living. The following types of larvae are classified as secretive:
The second variety is caterpillars that live on leaves, which they themselves eat. These are most species of larvae of the largest butterflies.
What do caterpillars eat?
An insect that has just been born eats the top layer of the egg in which it grew. After this, the “worm” proceeds to its main meal. Each type of larvae has its own diet. Most caterpillars eat vegetation: fruits and various green masses. Larvae can be divided into 4 categories depending on their food supply:
- Polyphages- all plants are consumed without exception. This species includes, for example, the caterpillars of moths.
- Oligophages- prefer to consume specific plants. For example, umbrella bushes.
- Monophages- eat only one type of plant. For example, silkworm larvae consume only mulberry leaves.
- Xylophagous— the food source of this species is wood.
It is worth noting certain types of caterpillars, which cannot be combined into any category, since there are few of them, but they exist:
Each type of caterpillar has its own diet, and it depends on the category of these larvae, their mode of existence and habitat.
Body structure of a caterpillar: description, photo
Any caterpillar consists of the following body parts:
- Head
- Breast
- Abdomen
- Pairs of legs
- Spiracle
- Mouthparts
- Eyes
Such an insect consists of a head, abdomen, chest and several pairs of legs.
Head structure It can be different for different types of insects - from the most unusual with “horns” to a real imitation of other inhabitants of the Earth, for example, snakes and even fairy dragons.
Larvae head consists of six fused segments that form a hard capsule. In the area between the forehead and eyes, the cheek area is highlighted. At the bottom of the head there is a heart-shaped occipital foramen.
Head Most caterpillars are round, although they can be triangular or rectangular in shape. The parietal part usually protrudes, forming a "horn". Antennae grow on the sides of the head.
Saturnia butterfly caterpillar
Oral apparatus Such insects have well-formed gnawing upper jaws with teeth, thanks to which the “worm” gnaws or tears food tissue. There are tubercles on the inside that help chew food. Saliva is converted into a special spinning secretion.
Larvae eyes is the simplest visual system. The eye of this insect consists of one lens. The eyes are on the head and are located one after another along an arched line. Some insects may have one eye, but it has extremely complex structure and fused together from five simple lenses. There may also be another eye located on the inside of the arch. It turns out that almost every caterpillar has 5-6 pairs of eyes.
The body of this insect is well mobile due to the soft tissues of the shell. Comprises separate departments. The anus is closed by lobes with varying degrees of development.
Spiracle The caterpillar represents the stigma, which is located on the chest. In larvae living in water, the respiratory organs are tracheal gills.
Each caterpillar has several pairs of legs, some of them ending in specific hooks. The legs, which are located on the chest, have a sole with a claw. With its help, the insect moves by protruding or retracting its abdomen.
The insect's body is necessarily covered with hairs, outgrowths or cuticle different shapes: stars, needles, knobs or bristles. Shaggy villi can be located either in the form of individual threads or in the form of tufted clumps on the back or tail. Almost all the fluffy caterpillars are very beautiful and then transform into the most attractive butterflies.
Caterpillar development: description, photo
Caterpillar development
Depending on the species, the butterfly larva can transform into a flying beauty from several weeks to several years. IN northern regions warm season does not last long, so the life cycle of caterpillars can last two years. Some types of larvae live in the caterpillar stage for up to 12-14 years.
During its development, the larva changes in size and appearance. For example, from an ugly and naked larva it turns into a fluffy caterpillar. The caterpillar then turns into a pupa, from which it then emerges beautiful butterfly.
Transformation of a caterpillar into a butterfly: description, photo
The pupa is usually cylindrical or round in shape. The color of the cylinder is monochromatic - green or light green. It may have a pattern on the surface in the form of stripes, dots or spots. When a butterfly is in the pupa stage, it already has wings, legs and a proboscis.
How do caterpillars reproduce?
The caterpillars themselves are the reproductive stage of butterflies. If we talk about the reproduction of caterpillars that do not turn into butterflies, then such insects lay eggs. Laying occurs on leaves, in tree trunks, in the ground or in reservoirs - depending on the species. The development of the larva in the egg occurs over several weeks. Then a small caterpillar appears.
Huge, thick caterpillars: name, characteristics, what it looks like, what kind of butterfly it turns out to be, description, photo
The largest caterpillar in the world is the peacock eye. This fat, bluish-green caterpillar. When you look at it, you get the impression that its body is dusted with white powder. This larva grows up to 15 centimeters in length. This caterpillar produces a large and beautiful Peacock butterfly. A shaggy brown head and two large circles on the wings that resemble peacock eyes, make the butterfly attractive and memorable.
Royal citheronia (lat. Citheronia regalis)- a caterpillar that grows up to 15 cm in length. Lives in North America. This large caterpillar with brown spikes in the form of horns often crawls out of the thickets and scares tourists with its appearance. She turns out beautiful red butterfly With yellow spots on the wings and furry body.
Greater Harpy Cerura vinula (Dicranura vinula) — The length of this caterpillar is small compared to previous species - no more than 8 centimeters. But her awesome appearance and its great thickness terrify everyone who sees such an insect. The brown color of the head with black eyes beautifully complements the red rim, wide body with a black stripe and white spiracles - all this attracts attention, but is a little intimidating. The butterfly from this caterpillar turns out to be shaggy with comb-like antennae and a pattern on the wings.
(lat. Cossus cossus) - huge brown caterpillar with an orange belly. Reaches a size from 8 to 12 centimeters. It digs holes in old wood and feeds on its tissues. The butterfly of this caterpillar is not impressive in its appearance, but impresses with its huge wingspan - up to 10 cm. Velvety wings with black stripes and “veins”, as well as white spots, resemble the surface old wood. This is an excellent camouflage from enemies.
Adam's head (lat. Acherontia atropos) or hawk moth caterpillar- reaches a length of up to 10-14 cm. Adults may have different colors: yellow, bright green or brown. It’s as if stripes are drawn across each segment of blue color. The body with blue dots and a black spiracle looks stylish and elegant. The hawkmoth butterfly looks a little scary: large, hairy, black in color. Easily visible on brightly colored vegetation.
Unusual caterpillars: name, characteristics, what it looks like, what kind of butterfly it turns out, description, photo
A person is attracted to everything unusual and beautiful. Many people don't like caterpillars because they think they are just ordinary "worms" - unremarkable and crawling around trees. But there are many beautiful and unusual caterpillars, which attract the eye with their bright color, both in the larva and in the butterfly.
Brahmin Moth- live in China, Japan and India. They live on the trunks of small bushes. The body is painted black and orange, which gives the larva uniqueness. They transform into a butterfly that is active at night. It has a noble, beautiful brown-black color of its wings and body.
Swallowtail (Spicebush Swallowtail)— during its development, the caterpillar changes color three times: first it is brown, then dark green, and then turns into a yellow-orange beauty with the head of a snake. As a result, the caterpillar turns into a rich black butterfly - beautiful and stylish.
Black Swallowtail
Black Swallowtail
Black Swallowtail- The white, black and yellow caterpillar lives in North America. Loves plant nectar. It turns into a very beautiful metallic green butterfly with blue tints.
Dalcerida (Acraga coa)- this caterpillar looks like the creation of glassblowers - transparent, like glass and delicate, like crystal. Its simple and at the same time unusual color with orange splashes attracts people's attention, but it is not very noticeable on the vegetation. Transforms into a butterfly in an orange “fur coat”.
Witch moth caterpillar (Phobetron pithecium)- lives on fruit trees. It is a real slug, since it does not have special legs, but moves on the sole, which is located on the abdomen. Transforms into a furry butterfly Brown covered with silky hairs.
Greta Oto
Greta Oto
Greta Oto, or Glass Winged Butterfly— common caterpillar with a yellow stripe on its body, it transforms into a beautiful transparent butterfly. The glass effect is achieved due to the absence of colored flakes.
Slug worm (Isa textula)- this yellow one big caterpillar like a real slug leaves marks on the surface of leaves and trunks. The fibers on the sides help protect against enemies. A butterfly with velvet wings looks like an ordinary moth.
Swallowtail (Pipevine Swallowtail)- lives in dense thickets of the taiga. Notable for its red spots on the tubercles of the body. In the shadow of the dense crowns of trees and vegetation, the taiga is invisible. Blue butterfly with bright iridescent black wings, very beautiful. It feeds on the nectar of taiga flowers.
Caterpillar from the peacock eye family (Attacus Atlas)- a large white peacock-eyed caterpillar, as if plastered and frozen in its original state. The butterfly is very large with brown-orange wings and an original pattern on the wings.
Beautiful caterpillars: name, characteristics, what it looks like, what kind of butterfly it turns out, description, photo
Nature has made even certain types of caterpillars beautiful so that we can admire their uniqueness. Their luxurious hairs and interesting colors delight you and you want to look at such a natural phenomenon without taking your eyes off.
Saturnia Io
Saturnia Io (Automeris io)- a beautiful caterpillar with green fibers in the form of pompoms. It is impossible to even imagine that a larva with such a color turns into a red butterfly. She seems to look with her black eyes located on her pink-yellow lower wings.
Blue Morpho
Blue Morpho
Blue Morpho- it is impossible to pass by at the sight of such a caterpillar. I want to look at every color stroke on the surface of her body. She is a dream for any artist. Transforms into a small blue butterfly.
Slug worm (Isochaetes beutenmuelleri)- looks like a decoration that is made of blue glass covered with artificial snow. The fabulousness of this caterpillar is given by the fibers in the form of needles. They seem to be covered with real frost. The butterfly is a regular brown moth.
Caterpillars with spikes: name, characteristics, what it looks like, what kind of butterfly it turns out, description, photo
Caterpillars with spikes do not look intimidating. They are beautiful, bright and interesting, you can look at them for hours. But it is better not to touch such caterpillars with your hands, since many species can be poisonous, and the spines are their weapon for protection from the enemy, through which they release poison.
Caterpillar "Burning Rose"— its spines are located on the cuticles of the body. As it develops, it turns into a delicate moth with iridescent beige and greenish wings.
a caterpillar that looks like a piece of black coal turns into a beautiful Peacock butterfly - bright and with interesting color. Lives in America and mountainous forests of Asia.
Dryas JuliaDryas Julia - Atlas Peacock-Eyes caterpillar (Attacus atlas) brown and white caterpillar with black spines. Lives in Thailand and the island of Java. It turns into one of the largest butterflies in the world, with a wingspan of up to 25 centimeters.
Caterpillars with a horn on the head or tail: name, characteristics, what it looks like, what kind of butterfly it turns out, description, photo
Caterpillars with a horn are often mistaken for space aliens, as they have an unusual appearance. But these insects are beautiful and interesting in their own way.
Hawk hawk- a green caterpillar with a blue horn. Lives in North America. Butterflies that come from such a caterpillar are listed in the Red Book. They are on the verge of extinction as people catch them and sell them.
Wine Hawkmoth (Deilephila elpenor)- found in our latitudes. The body is elastic, thick, bright green in color. The butterfly is beautiful, the pink beige velvet decoration on the wings and body looks amazing.
Linden hawk moth (Mimas tiliae)- also predominates in our latitudes, but also lives in South America and Asia. The color is green with small white dots with pink spiracles. The horn is multi-colored.
Small caterpillars: name, characteristics, what it looks like, what kind of butterfly it turns out, description, photo
The color of the caterpillar is usually the same as that of the plants they feed on. But there are microscopic caterpillars in the world that can masquerade as any flower, not only in color, but also in shape.
Flower Caterpillar Nemoriinae Tribe- you might immediately think that the caterpillar takes the shape of flower petals, but this is not so. She simply attaches the petals to her body using a silk thread produced by saliva. As a result, it is invisible on any inflorescence. Such a caterpillar turns into an ordinary moth, which no longer knows how to camouflage itself like its larva.
Caterpillars are considered the smallest caterpillars in the world clothes moth ( TINEOLA BISSELLIELLA ). Their size does not reach even a couple of millimeters, but they cause a lot of harm. If such a larva settles in a closet, then within a week it can ruin all the clothes, eating wool, fur fibers and skin.
At the end of its development phase it turns into an unsightly butterfly gray. Therefore, if you notice such a moth, then know that the job has already been done, and you need to look for a damaged item in your closet.
Fluffy, hairy caterpillars: name, characteristics, what it looks like, what kind of butterfly it turns out, description, photo
The beautiful and unusual fluffy and furry caterpillars. All these species delight with their original appearance. Here are some more caterpillars that look like fluffy and cute little balls of fur or fur.
Caterpillar Megalopyge opercularis- one of the varieties of coquette caterpillar. It seems that its body is a continuous thick head of hair, but this is how the caterpillar camouflages itself. Transforms into an interesting moth with velvety wings. The charm is given by light waves on the wings and a shaggy “mane” on the head.
Spotted Apatelodes- the only “blonde” caterpillar of its kind. Black spots of the body are visible through the white fibers. The body itself yellow color. Transforms into an elegant moth with unusual wings.
Striped caterpillars: name, characteristics, what it looks like, what kind of butterfly it turns out, description, photo
Common moth caterpillar- eats leaves of large trees and shrubs. It lives in our latitudes, as well as in America and Canada. The butterfly looks like an ordinary gray moth with big eyes and a furry belly.
- similar in color to a zebra, but has black and orange stripes. This striped caterpillar lives in New Zealand, North America and Australia. It feeds on ragwort bushes, so this diet makes them poisonous. A butterfly with a very interesting dark color leads a diurnal lifestyle. The red line and spots on the black wings give the appearance of this insect a bewitching charm and uniqueness.
- this type of caterpillar is the larvae of one of the most beautiful views butterflies in the world. They live in England, America, Ireland. Listed in the Red Book. The Swallowtail butterfly is a real decoration of fields and forests. She is more beautiful than any flower or other insect - graceful, bright and unique.
Silver hole (Phalera bucephala)- brown-black stripes on the body, covered with many thin villi. Lives in Russia, Turkey, and some countries of Eastern Europe, as well as in Scandinavia.
Caterpillars with a large head and eyes: name, characteristics, what it looks like, what kind of butterfly it turns out, description, photo
There are caterpillars in the world that resemble aliens. It feels like they came to us from outer space. Their head looks like the head of an alien. This helps the larvae repel predators. All they have to do is stand in a pose and all the enemies immediately scatter.
Space Caterpillar, Oleander Hawkmoth Daphnis nerii— in our latitudes, such a caterpillar is called the tomato hawk moth. It can be not only green, but also red with blue dots that look like eyes. The butterfly looks like a moth, but its color makes you admire it.
Hawkmoth caterpillar, megalopygid butterfly- lives in North America and Australia. It is impossible to pass by such a caterpillar, since its large spots on the head, similar to eyes, force one to pay attention to this caterpillar. This hawk moth is a very beautiful butterfly, and it looks like she is going to a gala ball - a white and red dress and a white cape with black dots.
Hawkmoth caterpillar (Hyles Euphorbiae)- lives in Southern and Central Europe. It is called an assistant in the fight against weeds, as it quickly destroys plantations of different types of similar plants. This hawkmoth's butterfly looks like a large moth with beige wings and brown and red splashes.
Caterpillars with dots and spots: name, characteristics, what it looks like, what kind of butterfly it turns out, description, photo
Another type of unusual coloring on the body of caterpillars is dots and spots. Such larvae look no less unusual than minke whales and space caterpillars.
Purple Caterpillar (Insects Caterpillar Cover)- many people are surprised where this name comes from, because the larva itself is brown-black. But it got its name thanks to the butterfly it turns into. Lives in the forests of Russia, America and Scandinavia.
Apollo butterfly caterpillar
Bedstraw Celerio galii Rott- a brown-green caterpillar with a red tail or horn lives in our latitudes. The butterfly looks like a brightly colored moth that is diurnal.
Apollo butterfly
Apollo butterfly caterpillar- lives in Norway, Finland and Sweden. Bright orange spots on the body of the caterpillar and red spots on the wings of the butterfly warn that the insect is poisonous. Upon contact with human skin, it causes a rash and irritation. Even watery blisters may appear.
Poisonous caterpillars: name, characteristics, what it looks like, what kind of butterfly it turns out, description, photo
A person should be wary of poisonous caterpillars. You cannot pick them up or even come close. Many species cause a burning sensation on the skin upon contact with the insect’s body, while others can even be life-threatening: breathing rhythm is disrupted, heart palpitations occur, headache and so on.
Flannel Moth- This poisonous caterpillar looks like a small hamster. Her butterfly is no less beautiful. But it is strictly forbidden to touch it with your hands, as it causes an allergic reaction and even a feeling of suffocation.
Lazy clown caterpillar (lat. Lonomia obliqua)- lives in Uruguay. A highly poisonous insect that secretes a special natural toxin. The venom of this caterpillar causes skin burns. In addition, the toxin can penetrate through the skin to internal organs and cause hemorrhage, for example, in the gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, and also causes pulmonary edema and disruption of the central nervous system.
Saturnia Maya caterpillar (Hemileuca maia) - covered with hollow spines, upon contact with which, a burning sensation appears on the skin, rash and nausea. The appearance of this caterpillar should be frightening, because a crawling, hairy insect with black spines will disgust any person. This caterpillar lives in our latitudes on oaks and willows. The butterfly from this caterpillar is also black in color with a hairy body, but it is not poisonous.
Caterpillar (Orgyia leucostigma)— you won’t be able to pass by such a caterpillar, since it is noticeable thanks to its red head and white body. Eats everything green and woody in its path. If you touch the hairs of this insect, burns and irritation immediately occur. The rash may not go away for several weeks.
White cedar moth caterpillar (leptocneria reducta)- lives on a cedar tree in several groups at the same time, eating every single leaf. Contact with the hairs of this caterpillar causes irritation, but not for all people. If a person has sensitive skin, they will most likely feel a burn and develop a rash.
Remember: Beautiful caterpillars are almost always poisonous. Their bright colors are designed to scare away predators. Therefore, if you see, for example, a blue caterpillar with an orange head or green caterpillar with bright red, blue or black spots, try not to touch such insects with your hands and move away from them.
Caterpillars are amazing insects. Ordinary people don’t know much about them and think that they are ordinary worms that crawl through trees. Only entomological specialists know everything about caterpillars. Here Interesting Facts about these insects:
- Entomophagy, or the eating of insects, has flourished on Earth since ancient times. Caterpillars occupy a place of honor among gourmets. They are eaten raw, dried, fried, with sauces, and omelettes.
- Caterpillar Silkworm specially bred in many countries. From 100 kg of cocoons, 9 kilograms of silk thread are obtained.
- The color of any caterpillar imitates the living conditions of this insect. This is an excellent remedy camouflage and protection.
- The caterpillar's body contains 4000 muscles. For comparison, a person has only 629 of them.
- During the first two months of life, the caterpillar eats a lot of plant food, which helps it increase in size up to 20,000 times its original weight.
- Caterpillars that live in northern latitudes, do not have time to go through the entire development cycle in one season, and therefore they remain to spend the winter in cocoons. It is worth noting that in this state the caterpillar can withstand frost temperatures down to -70 degrees.
- Some types of caterpillars live in anthills, making special sounds and secreting enzymes. The ants think that the caterpillar is their queen, so they feed it and take care of it.
- Certain species of caterpillars become poisonous due to the food they eat. For example, the caterpillars of the moss bear feed on poisonous ragwort. Their body begins to release toxins, making these insects a threat to animals and people.
Caterpillars are amazing creatures of nature. There are many different species, and almost all of them turn into beautiful and graceful butterflies, which are the decoration of our lives.
Video: The largest caterpillar EVER
Pictured is the Winter Armyworm
Early purple-gray armyworm Orthosia incerta Hdn. (syn. Taeniocampa incerta Hfn.) - a butterfly with a wingspan of 35-37 mm. The forewings are violet-gray with a reddish-brown tint, the hind wings are yellowish-white, covered in gray pollen. On the front wings there are two large blurry spots with white edges and a wavy whitish line.
In the photo, the caterpillar of the winter armyworm
The fall armyworm caterpillar is green, lightly patterned, with a white or yellow line on the back and light yellow on the sides.
The pupa is red-brown in color. Caterpillars feed during May - July on fruit and hardwoods trees and bushes.
Look what cutworm caterpillars look like in the photo, which shows different stages of their development:
Control measures or how to get rid of cutworm caterpillars, described below, the most current remedies are proposed.
Collection and destruction of single caterpillars. Preventive annual spraying of plants before flowering against a complex of pests with drugs: fufanon, kemifos, kinmiks, actellik, spark, Inta-Vir, also reduces the number of cutworms.
In the photo there is a yellow-brown armyworm
Early yellow-brown cutworm Orthosia stabilis Schiff. (syn. Taeniocampaaa stabilis View) - a butterfly with a wingspan of 35 mm. The forewings are brownish-red with a yellow tint. There is a wavy whitish line and spots with light edges. A number of small black dots are visible near the transverse line. The hind wings are yellowish-gray, with light fringe.
Unlike the cutworm butterfly, the caterpillar does not have such an attractive appearance.
In the photo there is a yellow-brown scythe caterpillar
It is green, with small yellowish dots and five yellowish longitudinal lines on the back.
The penultimate ring has a yellow crossbar. The flight of butterflies is observed in April; after fertilization, females lay eggs on the buds and leaves of bushes and trees. Feeding and development of caterpillars is observed in late May - June. The early yellow-brown armyworm is common on apple, oak and many deciduous trees. It is constantly found on strawberries due to the presence of green leaves on overwintered bushes.
Fighting methods against cutworm caterpillars are the same as against the purple cutworm.
In the photo there is a brown-gray scoop
Early brown armyworm Orthosia gothica L. (syn. Taeniocampa gothica L.) - a butterfly with a wingspan of 35-37 mm, the front wings are brown-gray with a light wavy stripe and thin white transverse lines. Between the kidney-shaped and black oblong spots there is a black space with ring-shaped spots, the hind wings are gray-brown.
In the photo there is a caterpillar of the Brown-gray Scoop
The caterpillar of the gnawing cutworm is green in color, with a green head, three whitish-yellow lines on the back, and a wide band on the sides. white stripe. The pupa is brown. Caterpillars feed in April-May on fruit trees, shrubs and many herbaceous plants.
Control measures the same as against the early violet-gray cutworm.
Pictured is the Blue-headed Owl
Blue-headed armyworm, or blue-headed cutworm Diloba coeruleocephala L. (syn. Episema coeruleocephala L.), - moth brownish-gray in color, with a wingspan of 40 mm. The forewings are violet-gray, with a large yellowish-white spot, consisting of three small ones; the base of the wings is brownish, with a reddish spot. The same spot is also present on inner corner wing The hind wings are light gray, with an indistinct spot and a dark posterior corner. The fight against the blue-headed armyworm caterpillar should begin long before the butterflies emerge.
In the photo, the blue-headed armyworm caterpillar
The caterpillar is bluish-white, 35-38 mm long, has yellowish lines on the back and sides and black tubercles along the body, covered with hairs. The pupa is red-brown in color, covered with bluish-gray pollen. The eggs overwinter on branches near the buds. In early spring, the caterpillars hatch and feed on buds, leaves and fruits, roughly eating them. On damaged ovaries, nibbles remain, which are later visible as brown, healed damage to the fruit. Having finished feeding, the caterpillars pupate in June in dense, cobwebby white cocoons in crevices of the bark. In September - early October, butterflies fly out and after fertilization, the females lay eggs on the branches. One generation of the pest develops per year.
The cutworm damages all fruit crops, many berry bushes and forest species.
Control measures the same as against the early violet-gray cutworm.
Hippopotamus, or hippopotamus, is a mammal from the order Artiodactyls, living in Africa. Leads a semi-aquatic lifestyle. This is one of the largest land animals. How much does a hippopotamus weigh, what does it eat, what types are there? The answers to these and other questions are in the article.
The hippopotamus got its name in honor of the biblical monster from the book of Job. There is a version that the biblical hippopotamus is an elephant. Another name for the animal is hippopotamus, which means “water horse” in Greek.
The body of the animal is massive, barrel-shaped. The paws are short and thick. The head is large, rectangular, with a blunt snout. Its weight is a quarter of the mass of the beast. The neck of the hippopotamus is short. The eyes are small, the ears are small and mobile. The nostrils are positioned so that the hippopotamus can breathe while completely immersed in water. A notable feature in the appearance of the animal is its gigantic mouth, capable of opening 150°, with huge, powerful teeth.
While the molars are used for grinding food, the incisors located in the center of the palate and the canines are needed only for fighting. The latter are especially great. U large males reach half a meter. The largest fang weighed 3 kg and was almost 65 cm in length.
The animal's skeleton is designed to withstand huge weight. The bones are massive, heavy, the shoulder blades are located vertically, forming one line with the front legs. The skull is disproportionately small. The brain is very small compared to the rest of the body, but the jaws are disproportionately large.
The skin is hairless, thick, 4 or more cm in length. The animal does not have sweat or sebaceous glands; instead, a red secretion is secreted, which from the outside looks like bloody sweat. It protects the skin from burns, which is important given the lack of hair in animals.
Despite its size, the animal runs, reaching speeds of 30 km/h. Having accelerated, it can easily crush a not too large animal that accidentally finds itself in the way.
How much does a hippopotamus weigh?
By different sources, the weight of the male ranges from three and a half to four and a half tons. Males weighing three tons are found, but the weight rarely exceeds two tons.
The dimensions are impressive. With a height of 1.65 m, the animal can reach a length of almost 5.5 m, which makes it the second largest land animal (on par with the white rhinoceros) after the elephant.
Character and lifestyle
Hippos live in small groups of 20-30 individuals, although there are herds of 150-200 heads. Every group has a dominant male who has the right to females. There are often battles for leadership, so the bodies of old hippos are covered with scars.
Males without harems live alone and jealously guard their territory from strangers. Females remain in the herd where they were born. Young males without females can form small herds.
Where do hippos live?
Previously, hippos were distinguished by a wide variety of species, living almost throughout the entire territory African continent, met at Far East. Now they live only in the south of the Sahara Desert, except for the island of Madagascar. The dwarf can be seen in Liberia, Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast (western part of the mainland).
The hippopotamus leads a semi-aquatic lifestyle, therefore it settles in areas of lakes, swamps, and along the banks lazy rivers. It can make do with small bodies of water in savannas, but they must be quite deep to be able to completely immerse themselves in them. The presence of grassy lowlands used for feeding is important.
Behavioral features
The hippopotamus spends most of its time in the water, leaving only its nostrils on the surface. The animal comes out to feed at night and returns to the water at dawn. Since he lives in the same place for a long time, over time he tramples the road, a hippopotamus trail, extremely dangerous for any animal that finds itself on it.
To communicate with relatives, the hippopotamus uses sound signals. The animal's voice is usually reduced to a roar or grunt. This is enough to show aggression, readiness to mate, and warn of danger. To demonstrate strength, the male usually opens his mouth wide.
A characteristic feature of hippopotamuses is marking their territory. Feces and urine are scattered over several meters, droppings even reach the tops of trees. The male also leaves heaps of excrement on his territory, sometimes reaching a meter in height. The female marks her territory less often.
By its nature, the hippopotamus is an extremely aggressive animal. It does not tolerate the appearance of relatives or other animals on its territory. There are known cases when a hippopotamus even got into fights with elephants and rhinoceroses. Often attacks people, often destroys fields. In terms of the number of people killed and maimed, the hippopotamus surpasses the lion, buffalo, rhinoceros, and elephant, and is rightfully considered the most dangerous among the wild animals of the African continent.
What does a hippopotamus (hippopotamus) eat?
The hippopotamus is a herbivore, but can also eat meat. The main food is terrestrial and semi-aquatic grass. Does not consume aquatic vegetation as food. He plucks the grass with his thick lips. The huge (60 meters long) intestines allow for better digestion and absorption of food.
There are known cases of attacks on other animals. Victims can include gazelles, antelopes, cows, and most often carrion and wounded animals. Hippos can eat their dead relatives.
What are the differences between types of hippopotamuses?
In the world, in addition to the ordinary hippopotamus, which was discussed above, there is another species - the pygmy hippopotamus, or hippopotamus. It's rare and endangered complete disappearance animal discovered in 1911.
The pygmy hippopotamus is similar in appearance to the ordinary one, leads a similar lifestyle, but there are a number of differences:
- Smaller sizes. Height - up to 83 cm, length - up to 177 cm.
- Weight - up to 275 kg.
- The body is less heavy and massive.
- Legs are longer.
- The head is smaller, shorter.
- The neck is more pronounced.
- The eyes and nostrils do not protrude as much.
This species of hippopotamus leads a semi-aquatic lifestyle. It is a solitary and not a herd animal. Compared to an ordinary hippopotamus, the pygmy hippopotamus is not so attached to water; when in danger, it runs away into the forest. Not inclined to defend their territories, less aggressive.
Unlike its larger relative, who does not disdain carrion and sometimes hunts other animals, the pygmy hippopotamus feeds on grass, shoots, and fruits. In its lifestyle, habitat, character, and diet, this animal is similar to the South American tapir.
Reproduction of hippopotamuses, life expectancy, care of offspring
The reproduction of common hippopotamuses has been studied much less well than the reproduction of other large herbivores. The reproduction of pygmy hippopotamuses is known only from observations of individuals in captivity.
Common hippopotamuses
The common hippopotamus is a polygynous animal, meaning one male mates with several females in a group. Sexual maturity occurs at the age of 7.5 (females), 9 years (males). Mating time is related to seasonal changes weather, usually takes place in February and August.
In a herd of hippos, there is only one dominant male who has the right to mate with females. You have to fight with others for this place males, which often ends in the death of one of the participants.
The female's pregnancy lasts about eight months. Before the birth of the calf, the female individual moves away from the herd. Females give birth in water, although cases of birth on land are known. After the baby is born, the mother pushes it to the surface to prevent it from suffocating.
Until the calf is strong enough to get ashore on its own, the mother does not eat anything and is constantly nearby. The female and cub remain outside the herd for about ten days. The mother feeds milk for the first 18 months. The cub drinks milk on land and in water. The females take care of the offspring; in the herd they and the cubs are in the middle and do not allow males into their territory.
IN natural environment Hippos live about 40 years. There is an assumption that life expectancy is related to the condition of teeth. The hippopotamus dies soon after the molars are completely worn away. In captivity they often live up to 50 years, the record for longevity is 60 years.
Pygmy hippos
Judging by its behavior in captivity, this is a monogamous animal that forms stable pairs. Animals reach sexual maturity at the age of 3-5 years. mating season does not depend on the time of year. Pregnancy in animals lasts 200 days; they give birth exclusively on land. A newborn calf weighs from 4.5 to 6 kg, begins to walk early, and takes longer to learn to swim. It feeds on mother's milk for the first 6-8 months.
The lifespan of pygmy hippos is shorter than that of ordinary hippos, at 35 years (in captivity).
Keeping hippos in a zoo
Unlike elephants, rhinoceroses, hippopotamuses came to Europe relatively late. The first hippopotamus was Obaish, which visitors to the London Zoo first saw in 1850. Even later, dwarf hippopotamuses appeared, discovered only at the beginning of the 20th century. Now common hippos found in zoos, breed in captivity, although not often. Dwarfs are rarely seen in zoos.
In captivity, animals are fed grass, hay, fresh fruits, and vegetables. It is better to get used to this food from childhood. Hippos do not need a separate drinking bowl; they drink water from the pond, but they will need it if the water becomes too dirty.
A big problem during maintenance is marking the territory with feces. The enclosure is being rebuilt in such a way as to protect visitors.
When treating hippos, a major problem is injections. The only place where the syringe penetrates the skin is the area under the tail. In other cases, you need a needle that can pierce thick skin.
Conclusion
At the beginning of the last century, hippos lived throughout Africa; now they are found only in the central and southern parts of the continent. The number is steadily declining.
The main enemy of hippopotamuses is man. Animals are hunted for delicious meat, strong skins. Peasants often kill these animals because they ruin their fields. The greatest danger to hippos is poachers who hunt them for their teeth. The latter are second only in value Ivory, they are easy to pass off as her. Changes seriously affect the number of animals natural conditions habitats: draining rivers, creating dams, irrigation.
In some regions, the population of hippos has decreased by 10-30 times over several decades. Now their number is about 150 thousand. Things are worse with pygmy hippos. If recently their number barely reached 3 thousand, now it has decreased to 1 thousand. Perhaps in the future these animals can only be seen in a zoo. The task of man is to preserve the animal.
The hippopotamus is a large land animal. It is also called a hippopotamus. In the wild, hippos live only in Africa - in its southern part.
Although it is a terrestrial animal, it spends most of its life in water. The hippopotamus comes to land only to eat. This animal is feeding river plants, grass - mainly at night. During the day, hippos rest.
Adult hippos weigh 3.5-4 tons, reaching a length of 4 meters. Hippos have a distinctive appearance. Its body is supported by short, massive legs. This animal has big mouth with 30 middle teeth and 6 fangs: two fangs are located in the upper part of the jaw and 4 in the lower. The skin of a hippopotamus is dense, thick, covered with mucus, which protects it from drying out. Since the hippopotamus does not have sweat glands, on land its body quickly dries out in the sun. Therefore, the animal is constantly in the water. Skin color – gray with pink tint. Hippos can run at high speed up to 48 km/h.
A hippopotamus can walk along the bottom underwater for 10 minutes. Then he comes up to breathe. When he swims, only his nostrils, eyes and ears are visible in the water. When diving, a hippopotamus' nostrils are closed with a special film to prevent water from entering them.
Hippos live in herds of 20-25 individuals. They have practically no enemies, except for the person himself.