Venomous Species and Venoms

Type :

Research papers

Pages :

2 pages

Format :

.doc

Published date :

11/20/2007

Category :

Science & technology

Sub category :

Biology

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Summary :

Introduction
Venoms in Lepidoptera
The most important venomous caterpillar in the US
Stinging patterns
Clinical aspects
Treatment and prevention
Conclusion
References

Abstract

Insects of the order Lepidoptera typically cause human envenomation, but effects generally are less serious than with hymenopterans. Injury usually follows contact with caterpillars, occurring less frequently with the cocoon or adult stage. The larval lepidopteran (caterpillar) is usually free living, is moderately active, and feeds on plants, although a few are parasites of insect nests or eat food of animal origin. The pupal stage may be free or encased in a silk cocoon. Wintering over in cold climates is usually in the pupal stage. Adults (butterflies and moths) have wings with microscopic chitinous scales. They primarily feed on nectar and other plant juices, but some eat semiliquid mammalian feces and urine. The adult provides no care or protection of immature stages. No social organization exists, although larvae and adults of some species assemble in large aggregations.