Tent-based thermoregulation in social caterpillars of Eriogaster lanestris (Lepidoptera: Lasiocampidae):: behavioral mechanisms and physical features of the tent

(1) We investigated thermoregulatory behavior of social tent building caterpillars of Eriogaster lanestris. (2) The silk layers of the tent shield most of the incoming radiation and reduce heat exchange with the surroundings by convective heat loss. (3) As a consequence its interior provides a wide range of temperatures. (4) By changing their position inside or on the tent caterpillars are able to stabilize their body temperatures at 30-35degreesC over a wide range of ambient temperatures as long as solar irradiation is sufficiently strong. (5) Overall behavioral thermoregulation takes precedence over the tent's physical features. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.