caterpillar

Butterfly larva having a long body and 10 feet; the intermediary stage between the egg and the chrysalis.

anal clasper

Last of five pairs of prolegs; it is located at the terminal part of the caterpillar’s body.

abdominal segment

Ring forming the caterpillar’s abdomen.

thorax

Part of the caterpillar’s body divided into three segments; the walking legs are attached to it.

proleg

Adhesive disk located below the abdomen that disappears in the adult stage; the caterpillar usually has five pairs, including the anal claspers.

walking leg

Articulated member having a motor function; it remains in the adult stage. The caterpillar has three pairs.

mandible

Mouthlike part enabling the insect to grasp and grind its food.

simple eye

Organ of vision formed of a single facet that captures variations in luminosity and allows the caterpillar to orient itself.

head

Anterior portion of the body of the caterpillar containing the main sensory organs.