Lasiocampini

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Lasiocampini: /ˌlæsiˌoʊˈkæmpɪnaɪ/

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Summary

Lasiocampini, commonly known as tent caterpillars, are a tribe of moderately sized moth larvae known for their social behavior and defoliation of trees. They construct silk tents in trees, where they aggregate during their larval development. The life cycle involves growth over several weeks, with significant feeding on young leaves and notable population booms during outbreaks.

Physical Characteristics

Moderately sized caterpillars often recognized for their colorful appearance and social behavior; build conspicuous silk tents in trees.

Identification Tips

Look for large, social silk tents in the branches of trees; caterpillars are diurnal and often aggregate in groups.

Habitat

Typically found in deciduous and mixed forests where they build tents in the branches of host trees.

Distribution

Six species occur in North America, while the remaining species are found in Eurasia.

Diet

Primarily feed on young leaves of trees, especially during the early spring.

Life Cycle

Life cycle duration typically spans seven to eight weeks from hatching to adulthood, including five to six larval instars.

Reproduction

Females oviposit eggs covered with a protective frothy material called spumaline. Mating occurs soon after emerging from cocoons, with females dying soon after laying eggs.

Ecosystem Role

They can significantly influence forest dynamics by causing defoliation during population outbreaks; serve as prey for various predators.

Economic Impact

Considered pests due to their habit of defoliating trees, especially in outbreaks.

Similar Taxa

• Eriogaster lanestris
• Malacosoma americanum

Misconceptions

Often confused with fall webworms due to their similar web-building behavior.

Tags

• tent caterpillars
• Lasiocampidae
• Lasiocampini
• defoliators
• insects