Photo By LymaBot , used under CC-BY-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Japanese hemlock caterpillar
Dendrolimus superans
A species of Dendrolimus, Also known as Sakhalin silk moth
The wingspan is 60–102 mm. The colour ranges from light yellowish brown or light grey to dark brown or almost black. The forewings are crossed by two dark stripes and there is a white spot situated at the centre of the forewing.
General Info About Japanese hemlock caterpillar
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Attributes of Japanese hemlock caterpillar
Colors
Brown
Black
Gray
White
Habitat
Pure larch forest
Larva Food Source
Pine needles (pinus species), larch needles (larix species), fir needles (abies species), spruce needles (picea species), cedar needles (cedrus species)
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
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Distribution Area of Japanese hemlock caterpillar
It is found in Kazakhstan, Mongolia, China, Russia, Korea and Japan.
Life Cycle of Japanese hemlock caterpillar
Egg The egg stage begins as the female japanese hemlock caterpillar deposits eggs. The eggs are small, round, and often laid in clusters on host plants. They exhibit colors that blend with the foliage for camouflage.
Larva Upon hatching, larvae or caterpillars emerge. These are long and worm-like, with distinct banding or color patterns for defense. They continuously feed on foliage, molting several times and substantially increasing in size.
Pupal The caterpillar forms a pupa, a protective casing where transformation occurs. There's no feeding during this stage. The pupa may be camouflaged or buried in the soil.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult japanese hemlock caterpillar displays wings with unique scale patterns for identification and mate attraction. Adults focus on reproduction, with some not feeding at all.
Interesting Facts About Japanese hemlock caterpillar
The caterpillar of japanese hemlock caterpillar can expand its body astonishingly to store food, a trait that allows for rapid growth and quick adaptation to available resources.
Scientific Classification of Japanese hemlock caterpillar
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Youth Habitat of Japanese hemlock caterpillar
Forests and Woodlands
Adult Habitat of Japanese hemlock caterpillar
Forests and Woodlands
When is the Best Time to Observe Japanese hemlock caterpillar
The most suitable time to find japanese hemlock caterpillar is during their active periods which depend on the specific stage of development. For adult japanese hemlock caterpillar, evenings or nights when they are most active are best.
What is the Best Weather to Observe Japanese hemlock caterpillar
Mild, warm weather with little to no wind is ideal for finding japanese hemlock caterpillar, as extreme temperatures or precipitation can reduce their activity.
How and Where Can You Find Japanese hemlock caterpillar at Different Life Stages
Egg Japanese hemlock caterpillar eggs are often laid in clusters on the underside of leaves of the host plants. These can be found by carefully inspecting the leaves of such trees.
Larva Japanese hemlock caterpillar caterpillars are found on or near their host plants. Look for them by examining the leaves for signs of feeding or by looking for frass (caterpillar droppings) beneath the plant.
Pupal Japanese hemlock caterpillar pupae might be in a cocoon attached to the branches or trunks of host trees, or they could be buried in the soil or leaf litter. Search around the base of host trees or in nearby soil.
Adult Adult japanese hemlock caterpillar can be lured in the evenings with bright lights or by using pheromone traps. They can also be found resting on the trunk or leaves of trees during the day.
Are Japanese hemlock caterpillar harmful?
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Are Japanese hemlock caterpillar harmful to humans?
Most of the larvae of the leaf moth family are poisonous bristles, which will release an irritating liquid when broken. If they are stabbed by these burrs, they will immediately produce tingling and burning sensations, and may also cause nausea and vomiting. In severe cases, the numbness and swelling that accompanies it may extend to the entire arm, leg, or other area.
Harmful Effects of Japanese hemlock caterpillar
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Agricultural Pests
Larvae of japanese hemlock caterpillar chew on conifer leaves and stems, causing defoliation that weakens trees, stunts growth, and can lead to a severe loss, especially in high numbers. Affected trees become more susceptible to secondary pests and diseases, posing a threat to forestry industries.