sphinx caterpillar

[Sticky]

I found a nice sphinx caterpillar while looking for moths. It is covered with black dots, almost tiny circles. I am guessing it is infected by parasites.

Would it be ok to give it to one of my mantids?

 

[sally]

I would not. But I am new to mantids, so it is only an uneducated opinion

 

[patrickfraser]

If you believe it to be infected with parasites, it is best to err on the side of caution and get rid of it. You never know if the parasites can or will spread to the mantis. Post a pic. Maybe it's just how it's supposed to look. Compare with pictures on the internet and see if it still looks "infected".

 

[Sticky]

I will just freeze it. I wont let it go: the more dead parasites around, the better. The caterpillar will not pupate. Its suffering.

The spots on it are not normal markings. Ive seen this kind around and they all lack those spots. I cant take pics, my computer is not working. Thanks everyone.

 

[Termite48]

Most parasites are better exterminated. On the other hand, most parasites are host specific. Not that you want to risk a mantid for a little strange chow. Check out the link to "tricogramma wasps":http://tcpermaculture.blogspot.com/2011/07/beneficial-insects-trichogramma-wasps.html