Ermine moth communal web C016 / 8755
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Ermine moth communal web C016 / 8755
Communal silk web constructed by the gregarious larvae (caterpillars) of the Spindle Ermine Moth, Yponomeuta cagnagella. Ermine moths are micro-moths; the genus Yponomeuta is comprised of 8 species. All are characterised by gregarious larvae that produce extensive webs, and whose feeding often results in the complete defoliation of the host plant, including large trees, or tens of metres of hedgerows. The web is thought to act as a protective layer against predation by birds. In this picture the green leaves visible are common ivy, Hedera helix, growing through an isolated bush of Common Spindle, Euonymus europaeus in a roadside hedge. All of the leaves of the bush have been eaten. The picture was taken in Norfolk UK in May
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Media ID 9222565
© DR JEREMY BURGESS/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Hedera Helix Silk Common Spindle Defoliation Ermine Moth Micro Moth
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the intricate beauty of nature's delicate balance. The image showcases a mesmerizing sight - a communal silk web constructed by the gregarious larvae of the Spindle Ermine Moth, scientifically known as Yponomeuta cagnagella. These micro-moths are part of a genus comprised of eight species, all sharing the characteristic behavior of their larvae producing extensive webs. The photograph was taken in Norfolk, UK during May and features an isolated bush of Common Spindle, Euonymus europaeus, intertwined with common ivy leaves (Hedera helix). Unfortunately, this stunning display comes at a cost; every leaf on the bush has been devoured by these voracious caterpillars. Remarkably, these communal webs serve as protective layers against predation by birds. Their presence not only shields them from harm but also facilitates their feeding frenzy that often leads to complete defoliation of host plants such as large trees or even tens of meters worth of hedgerows. Dr. Jeremy Burgess captured this momentous scene through his lens for Science Photo Library. It serves as a reminder that within our natural world lies both awe-inspiring beauty and astonishing survival strategies employed by seemingly insignificant creatures like ermine moths and their gregarious larvae.
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