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Green Grappler Moth Caterpillar, Maui, Hawaii, 2003

Sensitive hairs and nerves on the back of the green grappler moth caterpillar detect the slightest touch of prey. Lightning-fast reflexes and six needle-tipped claws spell the end for this termite in Maui, Hawaii.

(Text adapted from and photo shot on assignment for, but not published in, "Killer Caterpillars: Built to Eat Flesh," June 2003, National Geographic magazine)

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Photograph by Darlyne Murawski