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Deilephila elpenor, elephant hawk moth caterpillars
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Deilephila elpenor, elephant hawk moth caterpillars
Two elephant hawk moth caterpillars by H. Hengstenburgh. From Collection of Drawings by Dutch Artists, 17th-19th centuries. Held in the Entomology Library at the Natural History Museum, London
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Media ID 8593379
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10712639
Arthropod Arthropoda Caterpillar Deilephila Entomological Grub Hawk Moth Hawkmoth Hexapod Hexapoda Horn Worm Hornworm Insecta Larva Larvae Lepidoptera Lepidopteran Moth Sphingidae Deilephila Elpenor Elephant Hawk Moth Elephant Hawkmoth Invertebrata
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This image features two elegantly illustrated elephant hawk moth caterpillars, Deilephila elpenor, from the extensive Collection of Drawings by Dutch Artists held in the Entomology Library at the Natural History Museum in London. The intricate detail and lifelike accuracy of these drawings, created in the 17th-19th centuries, showcase the beauty and complexity of these fascinating invertebrates. Elephant hawk moths, also known as hornworms or sphinx moths, belong to the Sphingidae family within the Lepidopteran order. These moths are renowned for their large size and distinctive appearance, with adults possessing a wingspan of up to 15 centimeters. However, it is their caterpillar stage that captures the imagination with their striking appearance and impressive size, sometimes growing up to 15 centimeters in length. The two caterpillars depicted in the drawing are adorned with various spines and horns, providing them with a formidable defense against predators. The first caterpillar, with its prominent horn and spines along its body, resembles the more commonly recognized form of the elephant hawk moth caterpillar. The second caterpillar, however, displays a more elongated and slender body, with fewer spines and a smaller horn. This variation highlights the intraspecific diversity within the Deilephila elpenor population. The intricate illustrations of these elephant hawk moth caterpillars not only serve as a testament to the artistic skill of the Dutch artists but also provide valuable insights into the natural history of these captivating creatures. These drawings continue to inspire awe and fascination among entomologists, naturalists, and art enthusiasts alike, showcasing the rich biodiversity of the insect world.
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