A newly discovered Hawaiian caterpillar species, called the 'bone collector,' displays rare carnivorous behavior, consuming insects caught in spider webs and adorning itself with their remains. This camouflage helps it evade predators while it thrives among spiders, risking its safety to dine on the catch of the arachnids. This behavior, alongside reports of cannibalism, presents a bizarre symbiotic relationship between the caterpillar and spiders, challenging previously held beliefs about caterpillar diets. Researchers highlight the significance of this discovery in showcasing the unique dynamics of the ecosystem in Hawaii.
We started realizing these things are only hanging out where there are spiders. It's the sort of thing you really want to be sure of because it's not just incredible, it's unimaginable.
It is remarkable that a caterpillar would tie its fate to a spider - a clear and present danger for both caterpillar and moth alike.
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