I took this picture about 5 years ago

Is there anybody that can tell me what kind of worm it is unfortunately i did take a picture of the tree to identify it but why is there so many on this tree and not on the other trees

It's a caterpiller and not a worm. Although I can't identify what type it is from that photograph, (as I'm sure you know), it's not uncommon for certain species to either prefer or have to feed on one (or limited) type(s) of tree etc.

We get a similar thing with a different caterpiller on our fever trees in the garden.

I'm sure someone will be able to identify it for you though buddy.......

The pict is so fuzzy, they could even be centipedes IMO

It could be as we call it afrikaans "brand wurms" due to the hair on produces a burning sensation when you touch them.

Those are butterfly larva (catepillars), they look similar to Acrea butterflies, but I know very little about all the Lepidoptera and most larvae look similar to me! In fact its seldom to meet real insect experts....

Looks like a "wooly worm" to me.

Rich Elliott

quote:

Originally posted by Rich Elliott:
Looks like a "wooly worm" to me.

Rich Elliott

And they are Black so it's going to be a long winter.

From way too much time in the classroom, albeit long ago, I think 8X60s is on the right track, at least for the larger ones. The prominent "horns" at the head, and the long filaments running the length of the body would give credence to the "brand worm" identification. And if you've never had the pleasure of finding out why they are called such, consider yourself lucky. They smart a lot.

The smaller ones, with out all the filaments and showing no horns would appear to be in the "tent catapillar" grouping but I wouldn't hazard a guess as to which genus. These swarm foliage.

who cares

quote:

Originally posted by 8x60s:
It could be as we call it afrikaans "brand wurms" due to the hair on produces a burning sensation when you touch them.

Where is Alf when you need him for the proper genus and species?

They are certainly butterfly caterpillars of sorts, but I am afraid that correctly identifying larvae (especially to species level) can be a bit of a mission. If you know what tree it was on, that could certainly help, (looks a bit like a Commiphora of sorts) as many species are very specific and stick to one species of plant. If you can get your hands on a butterfly book and scroll through you may just be lucky!

8 X 60.
Are "brand wurms" the same as what is called Nairobi Fry in East Africa?

Rich Elliott