BRN 9-3 - Flipbook - Page 30
there are many Þlaments with grasping hooks, shown well in
the image at the bottom left.
transformed global ecosystems with increasing intensity and
diversity, driving accelerated rates of ecological change that
often surpass natural variability. Processes such as species
extinctions, introductions and range shifts have also altered
patterns of biodiversity and ecosystem functions. Despite
major advances in understanding human effects on
ecosystems, important knowledge gaps remain. These gaps
include information about novel ecosystems, hybrid culturalÐ
natural ecosystems, accurate prediction of rates of change
and chronological control of potential drivers of change.
Addressing these gaps demands improved research
methods and interdisciplinary approaches to better
anticipate and mitigate future anthropogenic disturbances
on global biodiversity.Ó
Behind the head of the caterpillar there are three pair of
thoraic legs (a.k.a. forelegs). They are used to grasp leaves
while the caterpillar eats, among other things. See the two
images in the left column of the next page. The top one is a
detail of the image below.
OslarÕs Oakworm Moth Caterpillar
Anisota oslari
In the April 2023 issue of this journal we referenced
observations of OslarÕs Oakworm Moth Caterpillar along
Scenic Trail 796, west of Kingston. On October 7, 2025 we
returned to that site and found them at work again.
In the 2023 article we also discussed caterpillar anatomy,
including the anterior prolegs. During our 2025 observation
we were able to capture some images of caterpillar
appendages.
When observed without aids, the anterior prolegs look like
little suction cups, but they are not. Within each proleg
In the detail it is possible to see the femur, tibia, and tarsus
of the leg as well as the claw at the end.
The images in the right column on the following page show
both types of legs being utilized.
Caterpillars produce silk from the spinneret which is located
with the mouth parts. Several types of silk may be produced
by a caterpillar. The spinneret is labeled in the detail at the
top left of the following page.
On October 10 I returned to the site to shoot additional
video. The video from the 7th and 10th may be viewed at
this link. On the 10th I noted that the rhythmic movement of
the head was not associated with feeding, which I had
surmised on the 7th. Instead, it appears to be a defensive
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