Ultramorphology and chaetotaxy insights into the larval defensive adaptations of Fentonia ocypete (Lepidoptera: Notodontidae)
Abstract
Larvae of Notodontidae employ diverse antipredator strategies, yet research has largely overlooked early instars. In this study, the ultramorphology and chaetotaxy of first-instar Fentonia ocypete were analysed, yielding new evidence for its defensive adaptations and systematic placement. The first-instar larvae of F. ocypete are peculiar for bearing five pairs of dorsal pigmented protuberances on the prothorax, the first three and the eighth abdominal segments, raised anal prolegs bearing reduced crochets and the heterogenetic setal arrangement on A3–A6. The relationship between larval morphology and defensive strategies is briefly discussed.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy
Biological Control of Invasive Species
Insect-Plant Interactions and Control
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Journal of Natural History
- Publisher
- Informa UK Limited
- Volume
- 60
- Issue
- 9-12
- Pages
- 709–718
- Publication date
- 4 March 2026
- Language
- EN