
Community identification
Inchworm (Geometer moth caterpillar)
Geometridae (family)
- Order & Family
- Order: Lepidoptera, Family: Geometridae
- Size
- 10 mm to 50 mm (0.4 to 2 inches) depending on species
Natural Habitat
Found globally in forests, gardens, and woodlands on host plants
Diet & Feeding
Herbivorous; primarily feeds on the leaves of trees, shrubs, and various crops
Behavior Patterns
Notable for their 'looping' movement caused by having prolegs only at the front and back; many species use camouflage to mimic twigs
Risks & Benefits
Benefits the ecosystem as a food source for birds and predatory insects; some species can be significant agricultural or forest pests by defoliating trees