Processionary Caterpillar Moth vs Palmetto Tortoise Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Processionary Caterpillar Moth | Palmetto Tortoise Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Ochrogaster lunifer | Hemisphaerota cyanea |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Notodontidae | Chrysomelidae |
| Size | 35-45 mm wingspan | 8-10 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Beaches & Coastal |
| Diet | Herbivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Australia, Oceania | Southeastern United States |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Processionary Caterpillar Moth
A moth whose caterpillars are famous for travelling in long, nose-to-tail processions through the Australian bush. The larvae are covered in irritating hairs that can cause severe allergic reactions in humans.
Did You Know?
Processions of caterpillars can stretch for metres and contain hundreds of individuals following a silk trail left by the leader.
Palmetto Tortoise Beetle
A round, blue-black tortoise beetle found on palm fronds in the southeastern United States. It can grip surfaces with extraordinary tenacity.
Did You Know?
It uses thousands of microscopic oil-secreting bristles on its feet to create adhesion forces 60 times its own body weight.