Which of these two photos shows a caterpillar?
Who knew that looking like poop could save your life? The orangedog (or giant swallowtail) caterpillar is a master at disguise, as witnessed in this photo. The photo on the right shows the caterpillar larvae, while the photo on the left shows bird feces. Not only does this caterpillar have a great camo pattern, but it also has another defense system: its osmeterium. An osmeterium is a glandular organ that swallowtail butterflies have. When threatened, the caterpillar sticks out its osmeterium and rears up like a cobra. In later instar caterpillars, the osmeterium also has a foul odor that deters potential predators. This caterpillar turns into the beautiful giant swallowtail butterfly in its adult form. The larvae feed on citrus leaves and can defoliate young trees quickly.
This week’s question is from Zack Snipes, Lowcountry Fruit and Vegetable Extension Agent.
The South Carolina Grower 