Scientists Stumped by Evolving Caterpillars

Online, March 31, 2010 (Newswire.com) - Scientists in Hawaii have discovered a caterpillar that can live underwater for an undefined amount of time--and not by holding their breath. These caterpillars never break the surface for air and they have no gills. A total of fourteen species were discovered.

The caterpillars die in standing water but can thrive in waters with a higher oxygen level--such as, Hawaii's quickly moving streams. Out of water, the caterpillars are exactly the same. The National Geographic claims that they are the first amphibious insects found.

"When you put these guys in water, they run around and eat. You take them out, and they're perfectly fine too," stated Daniel Rubinoff of the University of Hawaii.

Just like typical land caterpillars, the amphibious caterpillars build cocoons of silk to live in. The caterpillars are part of the Hyposmocoma species, which has over 400 known members. Scientists speculate that the caterpillars may have an organ that allows them to survive underwater and on land.

Upon maturity, the caterpillars turn into moths. The coons float near the surface and the moths emerge. The moths are not believed to be amphibious.