Myth 1: Caters grow wings inside their chrysalis
The myth that caterpillars grow wings inside their chrysalises is a common one. However, the caterpillar is actually dissolved and re-animated before it emerges from its cocoon. The wings are actually formed in the moth’s thorax, which is visible after it breaks free from its pupal skin.
In fact, the chrysalises may only indicate the caterpillar is approaching maturity. They are not a reliable method for weather forecasting, as the width of a chrysalis can vary according to temperature.
https://peaksfabrications.com/aftermarket-caterpillar-parts-debunking-misconceptions.html This might come as a surprise to many people, but the truth is, plants cannot hear their owners talk to them. They can, however, be triggered by vibrations like when caterpillars chew their leaves. This is why some plants seem to grow faster after listening to music.
Myth 2: Caters eat plants
Caterpillars are a vital part of the food chain, and some bird species even rely on them to get them through winter. But if you were hoping that caterpillars could help predict the weather, you’re out of luck. The varying widths of the rusty-colored rings only indicate the caterpillar’s age and not any temperature-related trends. Also, your plants probably don’t hear you talking to them either. (See Science Says: Using Cows to Predict the Weather for more on this).)
Still, these insects are pretty cool and worth getting to know.
Myth 3: Caters are aggressive
Caterpillars are the larvae or ‘baby’ form of the butterflies and moths. They only live in this form for about two or three weeks and then transform into either a moth or butterfly.
Moths make cocoons while butterflies develop in chrysalises. The caterpillar that turns into a wavy line emerald moth takes pieces of the plant it eats and uses them to camouflage itself.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar got a lot of facts right, but this one isn’t true. Caterpillars shed their skin several times as they grow and eat in preparation for their transformation. They also grow hairs, bristles and even change colors during this time.
Despite being considered invasive plants, many invasive plants attract bees and other pollinators because of their flowers. This makes them good for the environment as long as they don’t become a nuisance.
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