The Case for Caterpillars
Caterpillars can sometimes get a bad rap amongst gardeners — they chew through the leaves of the plants you’ve so carefully curated, how dare they! BUT I’m here to make a case for the caterpillar. To understand this argument, though, you’ll have to suspend your belief that gardens are just for people. If that’s your outlook, you’re likely to stop reading here.
Caterpillars — the larvae of moths and butterflies — are important organisms in the environment, and they play several roles in the food web.
Here are some of the ways in which caterpillars contribute to the environment:
Food source for other organisms: Caterpillars are an important source of food for many organisms, including birds, mammals, reptiles, and other insects. They provide a high-quality source of protein and fat, which is important for the growth and survival of these animals.
It is estimated that up to 96% of land birds in North America rely on caterpillars and other insects to feed their young. This is because caterpillars are a rich source of protein and nutrients that are essential for growing nestlings. In fact, studies have shown that some bird species need to consume thousands of caterpillars every day to successfully rear their young. This highlights the importance of maintaining healthy ecosystems with diverse insect populations to support bird populations.
Pollination: Some species of caterpillars are known to be important pollinators, as they feed on the nectar and pollen of flowers. For example, the larvae of some butterfly species, such as the monarch butterfly, feed on milkweed plants, which are an important food source for pollinators.
Nutrient cycling: Caterpillars play a role in nutrient cycling, as they consume plant material and break it down into smaller particles. This helps to release nutrients back into the soil, which can be used by other plants and organisms.
Pest control: While some caterpillars can be considered pests, other species are important natural enemies of pest insects. For example, the larvae of some species of parasitic wasps feed on the larvae of other insects, which helps to control their populations.
Biodiversity: Caterpillars are an important part of the overall biodiversity of an ecosystem, and their presence can indicate the health and diversity of the environment. As such, their conservation is important for maintaining a healthy and balanced ecosystem.
Harbingers of Hope
Because butterflies are sensitive to environmental change, scientists look to them as signals that indicate the health of the environment. (American Museum of Natural History)
Overall, caterpillars play an important role in the environment, and their presence is crucial for maintaining the health and balance of ecosystems. So, instead of reaching for the insecticide the next time you see a cabbage worm, consider a different perspective (or look into Organic Methods of Controlling Cabbage Worms).