Tomato hornworm

The tomato hornworm is a large green caterpillar that is the larval stage of a specific type of moth, known for its distinctive horn-like tail. It primarily feeds on tomato plants and related crops, sometimes causing significant damage. These caterpillars are impressive in size, reaching up to 4 inches, and have a heavy body with a series of white diagonal stripe markings. When fully grown, they pupate in the soil, transforming into moths that emerge to reproduce. Despite their destructive potential in gardens, they play a natural role in ecosystems, and natural predators often help control their populations.