Parsleyworm – Black Swallowtail – Papilio polyxenes
Parsleyworm, Black Swallowtail Caterpillar (Papilio polyxenes):
Common Name: Parsleyworm (Black Swallowtail Caterpillar)
Latin Name: Papilio polyxenes
Appearance:
The Parsleyworm caterpillar is very appealing and simple to recognize. It stands out because to its brilliant green body, black bands, and rows of yellow or orange markings. It also has two fake eyespots on its head. The Black Swallowtail butterfly has black, yellow, and blue patterns on its wings as an adult.
Host Plants:
The Parsleyworm primarily feeds on plants in the Apiaceae family, which includes herbs like parsley, dill, fennel, and carrot.
Territory: They are found throughout North America, particularly in regions where their host plants are cultivated or grow naturally.
Damages caused by Parsleyworm:
Caterpillars are often not regarded as dangerous pests, even though they are capable of consuming large amounts of leaves from their host plants. Since they help pollinate adult butterflies, they are really frequently seen as beneficial insects.
Life History and Habits:
- Egg Stage:The life cycle begins when a female Black Swallowtail butterfly lays small, pale-yellow eggs on the leaves of host plants. These eggs are typically laid singly.
- Larval Stage:After hatching, the Parsleyworm emerges. It feeds voraciously on the leaves of the host plant, often exhibiting a preference for young foliage.
- Pupal Stage:When fully grown, the caterpillar finds a sheltered spot to pupate. It forms a chrysalis, where metamorphosis occurs.
- Adult Stage:The adult Black Swallowtail butterfly emerges from the chrysalis. It then seeks nectar from various flowers and plays a crucial role in pollination.