Slug caterpillars can easily catch your attention due to their exquisite appearance. Contrary to their name, these creatures are not actually slugs but rather the larvae stage of certain moth species. These caterpillars are colorful, flattened, and come in various shapes and sizes, making them a fascinating subject of study.
As you explore the world of slug caterpillars, you’ll come across their intriguing features like the crowned slug caterpillar, known for its pastel green color, beautiful plumes of stinging hairs, and captivating patterns. However, remember that these insects should be admired from a distance, since touching them can lead to painful stings.
Understanding the life cycle and habitat of slug caterpillars is essential as it helps with their proper identification. They go through metamorphosis, transforming from a feeding larval stage to adulthood, when they become furry, heavy-bodied moths. With more than 20 species within this family, these caterpillars can be found in various climates worldwide, including tropical regions.
Understanding Slug Caterpillars
Slug caterpillars belong to the family Limacodidae and are quite different from other caterpillars. They get their name from their resemblance to slugs, with a flattened, oval body and reduced legs.
These unique insects have unusual features. For example, their legs lack tiny hooks found in most caterpillars, giving them a slug-like appearance. They also have stinging hairs on their bodies, which can cause irritation when touched.
Some notable species include the saddleback caterpillar and the crowned slug caterpillar. The saddleback caterpillar has urticating hairs on four prominent knobs at the front and rear, while the crowned slug caterpillar has stinging hairs around its perimeter and less conspicuous hairs on top.
Here are some key features of slug caterpillars:
- Flattened, oval body
- Reduced legs
- Stinging hairs
- Wide variety in colors and patterns
Slug caterpillars are not only fascinating insects to observe, but they also play a role in the ecosystem. Just like other insects, they are part of the food chain and serve as a valuable food source for predators such as birds and other insects.
When encountering slug caterpillars, it’s important to handle them with care as their stinging hairs can cause skin irritation. However, with proper precautions, you can observe their unique beauty and behaviors, appreciating their place in the diverse world of insects.
Physical Appearance
Color and Texture
Slug caterpillars come in various colors, including shades of brown, green, and white. These colors can help them camouflage with their surroundings. They also have various textures on their bodies, such as spines and hairs.
For instance, you might spot:
- Brown slug caterpillars with stinging spines.
- Green ones with soft bristles.
- White ones with distinct horns.
Special Features
Slug caterpillars have several unique features that set them apart from other types of caterpillars. Some of these features are:
- Stinging Spines: Many slug caterpillars have rows of sharp, venomous spines on their bodies that can cause painful reactions if touched. Beware of these if you come across one.
- Horns: Some species feature horn-like structures to ward off predators.
- Suckers: Instead of regular legs, slug caterpillars have suckers, which help them move in a slow, slug-like fashion.
Size of Slug Caterpillars
Slug caterpillars vary in size, but most of them are relatively small, ranging from a few millimeters to a couple of centimeters in length. The size of the caterpillar can depend on factors such as age, species, and environmental conditions.
Remember to always observe these fascinating creatures from a distance to avoid getting stung.
The Lifecycle of Slug Caterpillars
The Larval Stage
The larval stage of slug caterpillars starts with them hatching from eggs. At this point, they are small and feature pastel green coloration. These caterpillars have:
- Flattened, oval-shaped bodies
- Plumes of stinging hairs around the perimeter
- Shorter, less conspicuous hairs on top
- Three pairs of legs directly behind the head
As they feed and grow, the larvae develop distinctive markings and color patterns specific to their species.
The Pupal Stage
After the larval stage, slug caterpillars prepare to pupate. During this stage, they:
- Stop feeding
- Find a suitable place for transformation
- Spin cocoons for protection
Inside the cocoon, the slug caterpillar undergoes a significant metamorphosis. Its body changes as organs and structures reorganize to form an adult moth.
The Adult Stage
The final stage in the life cycle of slug caterpillars is the adult stage. In this stage, the insect becomes a fully-formed moth. Some characteristics of the adult moth include:
- Wings with distinct markings and coloration
- Grayish-white setae on the wings and upper legs
- Faint black zigzags and narrow black rings on the wings
Once they emerge from their cocoons, these moths have two main objectives: reproducing and laying eggs. The cycle then starts all over again as the next generation of slug caterpillars begins to hatch and grow.
Varieties of Slug Caterpillars
Slug caterpillars belong to the slug caterpillar family and are known for their unique appearance resembling snails without shells. Many of these caterpillars have venomous spines, which can cause painful stings similar to a bee sting. Here, you will learn about four varieties of slug caterpillars: Saddleback Caterpillar, Monkey Slug, Crowned Slug Caterpillar, and Spiny Oak Slug.
Saddleback Caterpillar
The Saddleback Caterpillar (Acharia stimulea) is a well-known member of the venomous caterpillars category due to its distinct appearance and stinging hairs. You can identify this caterpillar by its:
- Green “saddle” marking on the back
- Prominent knobs with stinging hairs
- Urge to avoid touching them as they can cause skin irritation
Monkey Slug
The Monkey Slug (Phobetron pithecium), also known as the Hag Moth, is another interesting variety. You may recognize the Monkey Slug by:
- Its hairy, brown appearance
- Six leg-like protrusions
- Resemblance to a tiny monkey
Crowned Slug Caterpillar
The Crowned Slug Caterpillar (Isa textula) is considered one of the most exquisite varieties due to its unique features. These caterpillars have:
- Flattened, oval shape
- Pastel green color
- Plumes of stinging hairs around the perimeter
Spiny Oak Slug
Finally, the Spiny Oak Slug is another distinct variety, commonly found on oak and other hardwood trees. The Spiny Oak Slug can be identified by:
- Bright green color
- Rows of yellow and white stinging spines
- Typical feeding habits on oak tree leaves
While each variety of slug caterpillar is unique in its own way, they all share certain traits, such as stinging hairs and unusual appearances. It’s important to keep in mind that touching these caterpillars may result in skin irritation and pain, so always admire them from a safe distance.
Environmental Interactions
Plant Relationships
Slug caterpillars can greatly impact the plants they feed on. Trees such as oak, elm, cherry, hickory, and maple species can become host plants for these caterpillars. They can also affect flowers and other garden plants. As a gardener or farmer, it’s crucial to keep an eye out for these caterpillars to ensure the health of your plants.
Some common host plants for slug caterpillars include:
- Oak trees
- Elm trees
- Cherry trees
- Hickory trees
- Maple trees
Geographic Distribution
Slug caterpillars can be found in various parts of the world but are mainly found in North America. Their range spans from Missouri to Virginia and down to Texas. It’s important to be aware of their presence in your region to take appropriate action if needed.
For example, some locations where slug caterpillars can be found include:
- Missouri
- Virginia
- Texas
Climate Effects
Climate change may influence the distribution and behavior of slug caterpillars. Warmer temperatures can increase the range of these insects, potentially introducing them to new areas where they could pose a risk to plants and gardens.
By being aware of slug caterpillars and their environmental interactions, you can better protect your plants, trees, and gardens from potential damage they may cause.
Slug Caterpillars and Humans
Sting and Symptoms
When you encounter a slug caterpillar, be cautious, for they have venomous spines that can deliver a painful sting. The sting might result in symptoms like itching, swelling, and rash. In some cases, the pain can be severe, leading to vomiting, shock, and even an allergic reaction. It’s essential to pay attention to these symptoms and seek medical attention when necessary.
Slug caterpillars are slow-moving, so it’s unlikely for them to aggressively approach you. However, it’s still wise to steer clear of these poisonous caterpillars if you come across them in nature.
Control and Prevention
To prevent slug caterpillars from becoming an issue in your garden or home, you can take a few simple steps:
- Regularly inspect your plants and trees for signs of slug caterpillar presence.
- Remove any caterpillars you find by using gloves or other protective gear to prevent stings.
- Introduce natural predators, such as birds or insects, who prey on slug caterpillars.
- Use safe and environmentally friendly pesticides when necessary.
Keep in mind that some slug caterpillars are harmless, but it’s always better to practice caution and control when you suspect a poisonous variety is nearby.
Bug Control Recommendation Tool
Treatment
If you do experience a sting from a slug caterpillar, the following treatments may alleviate the symptoms:
- Gently remove any spines from your skin using a piece of adhesive tape.
- Wash the affected area with soap and water to prevent infection.
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers, anti-itch creams, and antihistamines may help to control symptoms.
- Seek medical help if you are experiencing severe pain or symptoms worsen.
Remember, slug caterpillars are part of nature’s ecosystem, so it’s essential to understand and respect their presence. Stay vigilant, take precautions, and know how to handle a potential sting from these creatures. Be careful when you encounter them, and always prioritize your safety.
Conclusion
In summary, Slug Caterpillars are fascinating creatures with unique appearances and behaviors. They can be easily identified by their flattened, oval shape, and pastel green color with plumes of stinging hairs around the perimeter. Remember, some species like the crowned slug caterpillar are known for their exquisite beauty.
Be cautious when handling these interesting caterpillars as their stinging hairs can cause discomfort or irritation. In addition, be aware that the adult moth stage differs in appearance, often showcasing bright colors and patterns.
If you encounter a Slug Caterpillar in the wild, take a moment to appreciate its beauty and observe its behavior. But, always remember to give it adequate space and respect as it’s a vital part of our ecosystem. Enjoy your encounters with these remarkable creatures and the wonders of nature that they represent.
80 Comments.
This is so interesting! It looks like it belongs under the sea…it resembles an cnidarian!
Hello Kouta:
This Stinging Slug Caterpillar looks like Monema flavescens (Limacodidae: Limacodinae). For comparison, there are a number of excellent photos of all life stages at: http://www.jpmoth.org/Limacodidae/Limacodinae/Monema_flavescens.html. As with most limacodids, contact should be a avoided as they can inflict a very painful sting. Regards. K
Hi there,
I’m the editor of an online magazine about Latin America – papagaio.co.uk – and I’m putting together a piece on bizarre bugs of the region. I was just wondering whether I might be able to use one of your images of the Amazonian slug caterpillar. Would that be possible at all?
Many thanks
Julia
Hi Julia,
Thanks for posting your request as a comment to the image you want to use. We authorize your use of an image posted to What’s That Bug? for your online magazine.
Yellow-shouldered Slug Moth caterpillars are often parasitized with these brachnoids in north Florida. We see several of them with these parasitoids every year. If you’d like more photos of these, we would be glad to share them for your site.
By all means, we would love your photos. Please use Parasitized Slug Caterpillars, or something equally descriptive, in the subject line when you send the images. Also, please use our question form and include any relevant information. Thank you for your offer.
Hi,
I am Sandra’s husband and I too saw the specimen in question. My daughter had put it in a big glass tube and I noticed that it seemed slimey underneath and lacked real legs. It had short stumpy/bumps that looked like want-to-be-legs? Anyway, it was quite a mission to get it out of the tube as it stuck to the glass but eventuall climbed onto a stick. It moved VERY slowly. I hope that this helps.
Regards,
Paul.
This may be difficult, but now that you have posted a comment, you will be notified if there are any updates.
Getting it down to species level might be hard. there are about 120 within Limacodidae.
this might be a Parapluda sp. but don’t quote me on that.
That mystery post from 8/24 seriously had me trolling the internet for possible matches. I’m totally sold that is was a single tentacle from a Spun Glass Caterpillar. Amazing sleuthing guys 😀
We couldn’t have come up with that conclusion without the wonderful contributions of our readership.
Australian Insects in Colour ( A. Healy & C. Smithers ) includes one of the above as a Monophlebus, Fam. Margarodidae. But theirone is bright orange, where yours in yellow. The black markings are identical, however.
Thanks for the information.
http://www.photographythailand.com/Forum/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view;id=1393 seems an even closer match than the slug caterpillar given. Seems to be another Limacodid though.
We just received a comment from Karl that we will post later identifying this as the caterpillar of a Archduke Butterfly.
thank you
What happens If I get stinged by one of these? I was quite painful at first and now it’s itching with red bumps. Should I be concerned?
If you are concerned, you should seek professional, medical attention. Though the irritation may take some time to subside, it is generally not a concern.
We would like to see photos of the bug as a moth, so we can deal with them when we find them; because our little girl just got stung by one toady and my wife and I were stung yesterday. We have a lot of the caterpillars in our garden here in central Japan; and they hide on the underside of leaves when we are pruning and taking the cuttings away.
Whenever one of our readers submits a photo of the adult moth, we will post it.
So beautiful!
Good Post. Liked the Post
There’s no ‘possible’ about it, its definitely a stinging caterpillar. I found this out after putting my weight on one with the palm of my hand. I hadn’t seen it, but the immediate fiery pain let me know of the presence of this caterpillar. If you get stung it burns like particularly painful nettles for around 5-10 minutes. The only other symptoms were the area was purple and sore for a couple of days but healed with no other problems.
Seen in Amphoe Umphang, Tak district in the West of Thailand near to the Myanmar border on a banana tree. Along with other huge and deadly looking insects and spiders..
Thanks for providing your first hand experience for others.
There’s no ‘possible’ about it, its definitely a stinging caterpillar. I found this out after putting my weight on one with the palm of my hand. I hadn’t seen it, but the immediate fiery pain let me know of the presence of this caterpillar. If you get stung it burns like particularly painful nettles for around 5-10 minutes. The only other symptoms were the area was purple and sore for a couple of days but healed with no other problems.
Seen in Amphoe Umphang, Tak district in the West of Thailand near to the Myanmar border on a banana tree. Along with other huge and deadly looking insects and spiders..
I got several beautiful pictures of this caterpillar in Pai Thailand
You may submit your images using the Ask What’s That Bug? link on our site.
I accidentally stepped on one of these in the dark and my toe is in flames. What’s the best treatment for something like this? I have checked and no spines remain only the stinging sensation.
a paste of baking soda and water is good for drawing out Honey Bee venom, but we don’t know if it will work on a Stinging Slug Caterpillar. You might want to seek advice from a local doctor or clinic. We are pretty certain you are not the first to be stung in the vicinity.
Today I discovered this stinging slug caterpillar Latoia vivida eaten all leaves on my
Jasmines. Collected about 30 still alive in plastic bag.
How to control this spread ? Any chemical recommended ?
We live in Johannesburg South Africa.
We do not provide extermination advice, but perhaps one of our readers will comment.
This bug looks very weird, I’ve never seen it before
I also live in Johannesburg (south). In January for the first time in the 5 years I have been living in my house I had never seen them until one day my 2 year old daughter got stung by what I thought was a wasp when she touched a hedge but turned out to be a stinging slug caterpillar, I have a very large hedge and each day I went and armed with a fork (to removed them) and container I removed about 60 a day. I think in all I managed to collect over 400. I have been stung 6 times and the pain is terrible…it lasts for hours. My husband got stung and it looked like a 10cm chemical burn 2 weeks later. I also found them migrating to another hedge on the grass and with two small active kiddies I had to take immediate action. Fast forward to now and I think I have found about 1. So I think I have won the war. They drown in water very easily so just leave them in a container of water,.
I found this page while searching for info on caterpillars when my friend’s daughter was stung. An amazing remedy for stings, burns, rashes, sunburn (and much more) is cannabis oil or cannabis infused olive oil. It’s the cannabinoids that do the trick.
Peace
Very interesting.
I think the common Baron caterpillars are really cool. I think I want one know. very pretty when it terns into a Butterfly so cute.
correct
For about 2 weeks everybody that passes my Rose bush thought that they where stung by bees or something ! It burn very bad for more than a day ,then i discovered the whole bush was covered with this green cattepillars looking like green small mulberries i took one of and my fingers start burning very bad never seen this in johannesburg area
Hi
I found a few while tying my climbing rose and got stung never seen them before here in jhb east are they a pest and from what region in south africa do they originate
Hi
I found a few while tying my climbing rose and got stung never seen them before here in jhb east are they a pest and from what region in south africa do they originate
I have identified this caterpillar feeding on legumes in Ghana during the raining season in 2016.
someone found such a caterpillar in Maharashtra, India. In konkan area, at post Morawane Village, Taluka- Khed, Dist. Ratnagiri
Found in Aurangabad and people are near to death do this. It is dangerous
Also had it kept them in a bug box and they made cocoons almost year later and the moths emerged today
Green moth with brown edged wings.
Found one today, tried to pick it up, also stung me. Any idea of what they become? I took a really good photo, where do I upload it?
You may submit images by using the Ask What’s That Bug? link on our site.
They are a real nuisance. I got stung by one sitting on the gate. Stings like crazy. And my dogs are stepping on them too. They seem to be feeding on my Wisteria creeper and are falling on the ground now because of all the rain.
Yesterday my grand daughter of 6 got stung by a hairy caterpillar. within hours it left a large blister and today which is the following day she is down with diarhorea. I am very allergic to spiders as her grandmother and advised my daughter to watch her reactions and take her to doctor.
Yesterday evening I started to feel unwell like thick head, a feeling of blood too thick to move. my heart was racing. I live a long way out of town but was so ill I considered contacting someone to fetch me and take me to hospital. I drank allergex and warfarin and disprin. This morning I have three smallest spider bites on my upper arm. Does this need hospital attention or can I just carry on with the allergex?
Regards
We are not qualified to dispense medical advice.
One stung me. I am from Roodepoort North, Jhb.
To get rid of the very small spikes,
put sticky tape on the area, and pull it off.
Cream with cortesone, and antihistamine,
are the best treatment.
I also got “stung” by one of these stinging slug caterpillars today while I was working in my garden. I live in South Africa and according to the comment above they are found in Singapore. Should I report this to the South African authorities or do you find them here as well.
There are many native species of Stinging Slug Caterpillars in South Africa. Many of the caterpillars and adult moths are pictured on iSpot.
mango baron butterfly
I read that the sting of baron caterpillar is poisonous and deadly.
But I doubt that’s true since it uses camouflage rather that poison to defend itself.
Anyone can confirm this please?
We will attempt to determine if the Caterpillar of the Baron Butterfly actually stings, or if it only looks like it stings. We seriously doubt it is deadly
I read that the sting of baron caterpillar is poisonous and deadly.
But I doubt that’s true since it uses camouflage rather that poison to defend itself.
Anyone can confirm this please?
Hi friends, this is Amol from Mumbai. Today in the morning I found a Baron caterpillar on my mango tree in the front yard of our entry gate. Throuw some light whether its poisonous or not. It was same as shown in the picture.
no its not
Omigosh, I just saw one of these for the first time today (on my trash can) and took quite a few pictures of it. I came here to see if I could find it, and here it is, newly posted! I didn’t even have to look . . . how serendipitous. I didn’t touch it either, although I did slide a leaf under it to photograph it. I thought it looked a bit plantlike and really pretty. Thank you Monica (I’m in Austin) and Whatsthatbug!
I too was stung by a small 2 cm long green caterpillar, but I am on the island of Phu Quoc in south Vietnam. It looks somewhat like the slug caterpillar you have pictured, but it is green and white. There is no yellow/orange like the one you have on your site.. They seem to fall out of the trees onto tourists suntanning around the pool. I didn’t photograph it, because I was too busy grinding it into a paste. Still stings some 3 hours later. Is it a variation of the slug, or is it something new.
Difficult to be certain without an image, but there are many species of Stinging Slug Caterpillars.
This looks exactly like what we see in the rainforest in Kalimantan (Indonesian Borneo). We know it stings and tell tourists to be careful.
Thanks
I just accidentally touched this caterpillar… absolutely no problem
My 12 year-old Chihuahua trod on one of these and screamed his head off – however it appears nothing serious, just an acute reaction. This happened in our garden in Da Nang, Central Viet Nam.
I just found one in Corpus Christi, Tx
I just found one near Fort Worth.
I was stung by a stinging slug caterpillar about two hours ago while brushing against a bushes leaves . Firstly I has this burning sensation and had thought that the Bush itself has stinging spines . Tried washing it in pool water ..no luck . ran to the kitchen for some bicarbonate of soda and applied it in a paste ….no luck.. my wife brought me an antihistamine cream for stings …also no good .So two hours later, my hands are not stinging as painfully but the nerves are still burning . Bearable but sore
. Like getting stitches .. same burning sensation . Terrible little creature. Never had them in my garden before . Wont go sticking my hands into bushes again without gloves
Unfortunately I just found one with my arm 🙁 and they sting! My location is in the Fort Worth area.
I have also encountered these little terrorists in my garden, and received a nasty sting.. You don’t say if they are poisonous, although this happened to me yesterday, and I am still alive..
Was this ever identified? My mum found one in the garden in Mbala, zambia
I saw it today near Ratnagiri
I looked this up because when I came in from the garden, I felt something on the back of my neck. I felt a burning sensation so I reach without seeing it and it fell on the floor. It wasn’t moving much so I may have killed it without intent. I got rid of it and noticed that he had stung me or something. I felt a burning sensation until I cleaned the red spot and put some honey on it. That was about 3 hours ago. I can still see where he did his thing on my neck but it’s not swollen and I don’t feel any pain anymore. It may just have been an automatic defense mechanism. Let me know if there’s more info on it. Thanks
Re: Previous post
BTW I live in South Texas
Got nipped by one on my tender underarm here in Chiang Mai Thailand. Identical to those pictured, except less than half an inch. It was an obvious neurotoxin as my arm soon began to tingle, but it wore off in a half hour or so.
We have these in our Vasai plantations too and they are mostly found on mango trees. Their sting burns and itches a lot
Stinging Slug Caterpillar is Venomous?
This types of cater pillers poison or not???
Yes it is.