Inchworm: All You Need to Know for a Fascinating Discovery

Inchworms, also known as measuring worms or spanworms, are the larval stage of moths belonging to the family Geometridae. They are known for their distinctive looping movement and are found in various species that feed on an array of plants, including ornamentals like rhododendron, as well as native trees and shrubs source.

These small caterpillars can range in color from yellow-green to brownish to blackish, depending on the particular species source. Some inchworms feed exclusively on conifers, while others only feed on deciduous trees and shrubs. Despite their small size, inchworms can cause significant damage to plants due to their voracious appetite.

Inchworm Basics

Appearance

Inchworms are small caterpillars that belong to the family Geometridae. They have a distinct crawling locomotion, forming a loop with their body as they move¹. Their color varies, with some being yellow-green, brownish, blackish, or even with white stripes running along their sides².

Variations and Species

There are many different species of inchworms, including cankerworms and loopers³. They belong to the geometer moth family and feed on a variety of plants, such as ornamentals, conifers, and deciduous trees⁴. Some inchworms feed exclusively on specific tree types⁵.

Habitat

Inchworms can be found in various environments where their host plants are present. These caterpillars thrive in forests, gardens, and urban landscapes⁶.

Lifespan

The lifespan of inchworms varies by species, but they generally complete their life cycle in a matter of weeks⁷.

Comparison Table:

Inchworm Characteristics:

• Small caterpillars
• Distinct loop-forming locomotion
• Belong to family Geometridae
• Vary in color and host plant preferences

Inchworm Lifecycle

Caterpillar Stage

Inchworms, also known as measuring worms or spanworms, are the caterpillar stage of moths from the geometer family¹. They are typically found feeding on leaves of various plants, including ornamentals, native trees, and shrubs². Their movement is characterized by forming a loop as they crawl, resembling a measuring process³. Inchworms’ diet mainly consists of leaves, making them potential pests to gardens and plants. Some species exclusively feed on conifers, while others prefer deciduous trees and shrubs².

Cocoon Stage

After their growth as caterpillars, inchworms enter the cocoon stage, where they use silk to create protective coverings for their transformation. During this time, they remain inactive and focus on their metamorphosis into moths. The cocoon helps protect them from external threats like predators and unfavorable weather conditions.

Moth Stage

Once the metamorphosis is complete, adult moths emerge from the cocoon. These moths can vary in appearance, from the spring cankerworms’ yellow-green to brownish colors, sometimes featuring a white stripe along the body⁴, to the fall cankerworms that range from light green to dark green to black⁴. Moths play an essential role in the ecosystem as both pollinators and food sources for other organisms, such as birds and mice.

Characteristics of Inchworm Lifecycle:

• Caterpillar stage: feed on leaves, potential pests to plants
• Cocoon stage: create silk coverings, metamorphosis occurs
• Moth stage: emerge as adult moths, serve as pollinators and food sources

Comparison between Spring Cankerworms and Fall Cankerworms:

Inchworms in Nature

Plant Damage and Infestation

Inchworms, also known as measuring worms or spanworms, feed on a variety of plants, including:

• Oak
• Fruit trees (e.g., apple, mulberry)
• Vegetable garden plants

These caterpillars can cause leaf damage and defoliation, especially during large outbreaks.

Inchworms as Food Source for Predators

Inchworms are an important food source for many predators, such as:

• Birds
• Small mammals
• Other insects

This natural predation helps to control inchworm populations and protect plants from severe infestations.

Inchworm Pest Control

Signs of Infestation

Inchworms, also known as spring and fall cankerworms, are small caterpillars that can cause damage to leaves on trees like firs, oaks, elms, and lindens. Signs of infestation include:

• Chewed or skeletonized leaves
• Small, poop-like droppings on leaves or ground
• Sightings of inchworms on leaves or tree trunks

Natural Pest Control Methods

There are several eco-friendly ways to manage inchworm infestations:

Stress-Free Trees

• Keep trees healthy with proper pruning and watering.

Beneficial Insects

• Attract natural predators like ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps.

Bacillus Thuringiensis (BT)

• BT is a bacteria that specifically targets inchworms.
• Apply BT to leaves for a highly effective, non-toxic control method.

Chemical Pest Control Methods

When natural methods aren’t enough, consider using chemical pesticides:

Insecticides

• Choose a product labeled for use on inchworms.
• Apply according to labeled instructions.

Pros:

• Quick results
• Effective even in severe infestations

Cons:

• May kill beneficial insects
• Potential environmental and health concerns

Bug Control Recommendation Tool

What type of pest are you dealing with?

Ants Cockroaches Termites Mosquitoes Bed Bugs Spiders Other

How severe is the infestation?

A few sightings Several sightings weekly Several sightings daily Large numbers, causing damage Unknown but suspect a large number

Do you require child/pet/garden safe treatments (organic)?

Yes No

Are you willing to monitor and maintain the treatment yourself?

Yes No

Inchworm Exercise

Benefits and Muscles Worked

The Inchworm exercise is a full-body workout that targets several muscle groups, particularly:

• Core: Engages the abs and lower back
• Upper body: Works the chest, shoulders, and arms
• Lower body: Strengthens the hamstrings, glutes, and calves

In addition to building strength, the Inchworm exercise is also effective in improving posture and flexibility. It can be incorporated into strength training routines or high-intensity interval training (HIIT) for a dynamic, full-body challenge.

Proper Form and Technique

1. Stand with feet hip-width apart
2. Bend at the waist, keep legs straight, and touch the ground
3. Walk hands forward into a high plank position
4. Walk feet up towards hands, maintain a straight back
5. Repeat for desired number of reps

Remember to maintain a steady breath throughout the exercise and engage the core in each position.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

• Arching the lower back: Engage the core to maintain a straight back in both plank and standing positions
• Bending the neck: Keep the neck aligned with the spine to avoid strain
• Rushing through reps: Maintain a controlled speed to ensure proper form and to get the most out of the exercise

Variations and Modifications

• Beginner: Perform the Inchworm with knees bent in the standing position and modified plank on the knees
• Advanced: Add a push-up in the high plank position for an additional upper-body challenge
• With dumbbells: Add dumbbells to the plank position for increased resistance and intensity