Thread subject: Diptera.info :: Parasitoid larvae and caterpillar host
#1
What is this? Is the caterpillar going to be eaten alive by the larvae or is it some form of commensalism? Taken today, in Lisbon. There were several, in vaious stages, going up the walls, in the outside.
Joaquim
#3
They are parasitoids -
Apanteles glomeratus (Braconidae)
#4
Thanks, Tony. If I understand well, the eggs were laid inside the cocoon by the wasp. But why is the caterpiller staying with its predators? Is it really going to be eaten?
#5
The eggs were laid in the caterpillar, so the wasp larvae have been eating it from inside. When ready, they emerge and spin cocoons under the caterpillar. Both the caterpillars you photographed are already mostly eaten inside.
#6
Impressing, Nature is cruel! If I understaood well, the caterpillars will die. And why do them stay in the place even after the larvae formed the cocoons?
#7
When the larvae emerge and form cocoons, the caterpillars are more or less dead already. And it's just as well the braconids do this, otherwise we would never have any cabbage to eat!
#8
Thanks again, Tony, now I understand. Yes,
Pieris brassicae is a serious pest of cultivated brassicas!