The caterpillar is a larva.
A caterpillar is the larva of a certain kind of insect. Caterpillars constitute a phase of development of butterflies and other lepidopteran animals. They usually exhibit an interesting variety of colors that cover their body.
It must be stated that there are different types of caterpillars. Thus, for example, we find the so-called pine processionary caterpillar , which is characterized by being very sensitive to cold and living in wooded areas.
Although its sides are gray, the rest of the body is black and it also has red hairs, called trichomes, which serve as its defense weapon. And these can cause serious conditions that are shown through allergic reactions.
The caterpillar as a plant
The notion of caterpillar is also used to name different types of plants. The Eruca vesicaria , which belongs to the cruciferous group, can be known as caterpillar, arugula or ruca . This herbaceous plant is used as an ingredient in salads and is also used to season pizzas and other foods .
In the same way, we cannot forget that precisely with this plant a sauce is made in some countries that is also called caterpillar. It is a sauce that is prepared using other ingredients such as sugar, vinegar or honey.
The Asphodelus fistulosus or gamoncillo is also called caterpillar in some regions. It is part of the xanthoroeaceae and is classified as an invasive species in the United States.
A chain that is placed on the wheels of some vehicles to promote traction is called a caterpillar.
A device that promotes accessibility
No less important is that within the accessibility sector there is also what is known as a caterpillar stairlift . It is a portable device that allows people in wheelchairs to easily overcome steps, stairs and other architectural barriers.
If it receives that name it is precisely because its articulated chain is reminiscent of the movement of the aforementioned larva. Currently it has become one of the most demanded and used accessibility systems since it has an important series of benefits compared to other items, such as an affordable price, absolute safety, that it can be folded, that it is easily transportable and that barely takes up space.
The caterpillar, a chain for wheels
Finally, a certain chain that is used on the wheels of some vehicles so that they can move over irregular surfaces is known as a caterpillar. From this device, we talk about the caterpillar traction of tanks, trucks, etc.
Thanks to this traction, war vehicles can advance on almost any terrain regardless of the unevenness and obstacles they encounter. The caterpillar, in this sense, is key to achieving mobility.