In summary, the caterpillar of the luna moth is very colorful. The fleshy prolegs (false legs that are lost before the insect becomes an adult) are green and yellow and black. The thoracic legs (the true legs just behind the head) are yellow and black. Each spiracle appears as a pink spot surrounded by yellow, and there is a distinct yellow line running along each side of the body just below the spiracles. A row of spiracles (where the caterpillar breathes) occurs along both sides of the body. Several conspicuous bright red spots are present on each body segment. The segment just behind the head is rimmed with yellow and there is a conspicuous yellow band across the top of every abdominal segment. The caterpillar is a lush green color and covered with numerous short, stout hairs. When full grown, this caterpillar reaches a length of about three inches, is as big around as an adult’s index finger, and is harmless to people. ![]() The caterpillar or larva of the luna moth does not have a common name. The luna moth is one of the most beautiful silk moths found in North America. Here we will consider the caterpillar (larva) and the adult (moth) of the luna moth (Actias luna). However, the caterpillars that eventually develop into these beautiful adult insects are not nearly as well known. Many of us are familiar with some of the large and showy moths and butterflies that grace the forests of East Texas. ![]() FOREST HEALTH: LUNA MOTH The butterflies and moths are probably the most attractive and best known group of insects.
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