Mittaamiskäämeihin

Mittaamiskäämeihin is a Finnish term that translates to "measuring worms" or "geometers." This refers to the larval stage of moths belonging to the family Geometridae. These caterpillars are characterized by their distinctive method of locomotion, where they move by arching their bodies and then extending their heads forward, creating a loop. This behavior resembles the action of a measuring ruler, hence their common name.

Geometer caterpillars typically have only two pairs of prolegs in addition to their true legs, located near the posterior end of their abdomen. This reduced number of prolegs is responsible for their characteristic looping movement. When disturbed, many species can also remain motionless, mimicking twigs or stems to avoid predators. The size and coloration of mittaamiskäämeihin vary greatly depending on the species, ranging from small and camouflaged to larger and more conspicuous. They are found in diverse habitats worldwide and feed on a wide range of plants, making them significant herbivores in many ecosystems. The family Geometridae is one of the largest families of moths, with tens of thousands of described species. Their larval stage is crucial for their life cycle, as they consume significant amounts of plant material before pupating and transforming into adult moths.