Hyposmocoma molluscivora

Hyposmocoma molluscivora is a species of moth found exclusively in the Hawaiian Islands. This insect belongs to the genus Hyposmocoma, which contains over 350 species known for their unique amphibious caterpillars.1

The caterpillars of H. molluscivora are predatory and feed on terrestrial snails, specifically those in the genus Tornatellides. They trap their prey using silk lines to bind the snails to leaves, then enter the snail's shell to feed.1

While most Hyposmocoma species are terrestrial, some have evolved the ability to survive underwater for extended periods. These amphibious caterpillars possess specialized pores on their abdominal surfaces that allow for oxygen diffusion directly from the water. They anchor themselves with silk to rocks in fast-flowing streams, as they require highly oxygenated water to survive.1