Snailcase bagworms

[Scythemantis]

http://somethingscrawlinginmyhair.com/2008/10/18/snailcase-bagworm-apterona-helix/

I know these probably aren't exciting to most people, but I just recently learned of them and am absolutely fascinated. They barely move, and like other bagworms, the adult female is just another worm-like state that never leaves its bags, but their populations in America reproduce without males, so they're caterpillars without a moth or butterfly.

I've read that they'll eat a variety of plants, but not enough to be considered agricultural pests. They apparently reproduce in rather large numbers, though. I would absolutely love to own a colony of these, even if it just looks like a tank full of dropping.

Anyone ever encounter them?

 

[Rochelle]

The bagworms are singularly interesting and would be fascinating to keep.
The link in the article to "Jesus was pathogenically produced and is a trans-sexual" was flat out hilarious and disturbing, all at the same time.

Thanks for a good read, on all counts! :clap:

 

[bugmankeith]

I think i've seen them before, but not the actual insect only the casing. It was odd.