answersLogoWhite

0

How are caterpillars harmful?

Updated: 8/18/2019
User Avatar

Wiki User

14y ago

Best Answer

Caterpillars eat vegetation. If they are numerous, they can kill plants over wide areas.You're probably not old enough to remember the 'tent caterpillar' problem we had in the northeastern US.

User Avatar

Wiki User

14y ago
This answer is:
User Avatar

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: How are caterpillars harmful?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp
Related questions

Are caterpillars helpful or harmful?

helpful


Are poisonous caterpillars harmful?

only if you eat them


Are buckeye caterpillars poisonous?

Buckeye caterpillars are not poisonous. There are some caterpillars that do contain toxins that is harmful to humans but the Buckeye is not one of them.


why are caterpillars harmful to humans?

Harmful Caterpillars to Humans User Why are caterpillars harmful to humans Caterpillars, in general, are not harmful to humans. However, there are certain species of caterpillars that can cause harm or discomfort due to their defensive mechanisms or venomous properties. Here are a few reasons why some caterpillars can be harmful: Venomous spines or hairs: Some caterpillars have spines or hairs that are equipped with venom or irritating substances. When these spines come into contact with human skin, they can cause skin irritation, rashes, or allergic reactions. Examples of such caterpillars include the puss caterpillar (Megalopyge opercularis) and the oak processionary caterpillar (Thaumetopoea processionea). Stinging caterpillars: Certain caterpillars possess specialized stinging structures, such as nettling hairs or barbs, which they use for defense. When humans accidentally touch or brush against these caterpillars, they may experience a sharp, stinging sensation, similar to a bee or wasp sting. The Io moth caterpillar (Automeris io) and the saddleback caterpillar (Acharia stimulea) are examples of stinging caterpillars. Ingestion of toxic caterpillars: Some caterpillars contain toxins or poisons within their bodies, often derived from the plants they feed on. If humans mistakenly ingest these toxic caterpillars or their hairs, it can lead to gastrointestinal issues, such as nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain. It is important to note that the majority of caterpillars are not toxic, and it is always best to avoid eating any unknown insects. It's worth mentioning that while these harmful interactions are possible, they are relatively rare occurrences. Most caterpillars are harmless and play essential roles in ecosystems as they transform into butterflies or moths, pollinate plants, and serve as a food source for other organisms.


What are the names of poisonous caterpillars in Edmonton?

the pillat the liver the monarch the luna moth are all harmful


Are hairy caterpillers piosion?

Depends what type. Some caterpillars can be so harmful that they can cause dogs death and asmatha suffers could lead to death to.


Are bluebirds harmful?

No, in many ways they are good. They eat many small bugs like crickets, flies, and caterpillars. They are also very beautiful birds.


What is the difference between black swallowtail caterpillars and swallowtail caterpillars?

Easy black swallowtail caterpillars are smaller caterpillars. SwallowTail caterpillars are bigger than black swallow tail caterpillars


Are eyed willow hawk moth caterpillars poisonous?

Hawk moth caterpillars are not poisonous. However, other caterpillars are, so always know what you are dealing with before touching a caterpillar.


What is a group of caterpillars called?

A group of caterpillars is called an army of caterpillars.


Is the Cecropia Moth Caterpillar poisonous?

Answer 1:They can be harmful to vegetation because in this state, they eat voraciously. They aren't harmful to humans, per se. Unless you eat one--probably will make you sick! Answer 2:If They grow, they become butterfly so they help you from plants, but the caterpillars to people shed sometimes they are harmful


Do caterpillars eat other caterpillars Not people diets?

no caterpillars dont eat other caterpillars or people they eat plants and protein.