spanworms
Caterpillars measuring branches
Spanworms are caterpillars of geometrid moths, named for their distinctive looping movement.
Lacking middle legs, they draw their rear end forward to meet the front, forming a loop, then extend forward again—appearing to measure or "span" the surface.
Also called inchworms, loopers, or measuring worms.
Many are agricultural pests that feed on foliage.
Geometer moth larvae
- caterpillarsLarval moths or butterflies
- larvaeImmature metamorphosing creatures
- loopersCaterpillars with arching gait
- cankerwormsTree-damaging moth larvae
Lepidoptera · pests · defoliators · pupae · cocoons · metamorphosis · garden pests · forest pests
Loss of foliage
- crop damageHarm to cultivated plants
- infestationsHarmful organism overruns
- pest controlManaging unwanted organisms
- insecticidesAgents that exterminate bugs
biological control · parasitic wasps · forest management · agricultural pests
inchworms
Geometer moth larvae
- caterpillarsLarval moths or butterflies
- larvaeImmature metamorphosing creatures
- loopersCaterpillars with arching gait
cankerworms · Lepidoptera · pests · defoliators · pupae · cocoons · metamorphosis · garden pests · forest pests
defoliation
Loss of foliage
- crop damageHarm to cultivated plants
- infestationsHarmful organism overruns
- pest controlManaging unwanted organisms
insecticides · biological control · parasitic wasps · forest management · agricultural pests
- caterpillarscaterpillar, inchworm, silkworm, inchworms, hornworm
spanwormsearthworms
Soil-dwelling segmented invertebrates
annelids · roundworms · flatworms · nematodes · leeches