Who is Luis Eugenio Rivera Cervantes?
Luis Eugenio Rivera Cervantes is an entomologist and research professor at the Department of Ecology and Natural Resources at CUCSur, part of the Universidad de Guadalajara (UDG).
What is the “Fluffy Caterpillar”?
The “fluffy caterpillar,” also known as the “hairy caterpillar” or “gato lanudo,” is the larval stage of the Megalopyge opercularis moth. This caterpillar has been spotted in Tlajomulco de Zúñiga, Jalisco.
Why is it Dangerous?
The caterpillar possesses hidden spines beneath its fur. When these spines come into contact with human skin, they activate and inject a toxin used as a defense mechanism against birds and parasites. In humans, this contact can cause:
- Severe pain: described by affected individuals as similar to a fracture, gunshot, or walking on embers. The pain starts in the fingers and can radiate to the shoulder.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Tachycardia (rapid heart rate).
- Affectations to the peripheral nervous system.
According to Rivera Cervantes, there is no antidote to counteract its effects, and the groups at higher risk are girls, boys, and older adults.
Why is it Appearing Now?
Rivera Cervantes linked the sightings to a recent period of heavy rainfall, recalling past instances in Guadalajara public parks where these caterpillars were present, leading to fumigation and closure of spaces to prevent incidents.
Besides Jalisco, there have been reports in Nuevo León, Puebla, and Yucatán, as well as in the United States and Central America. However, further studies are needed to understand the biology and habits of this species in Mexico.
Recommendations for the Public
- Avoid direct contact with the insect.
- If handling is necessary, wear long-sleeved clothing, gloves, and tweezers.
- Do not fumigate: this measure could harm beneficial insects like other caterpillars, ants, and bees.
- Report sightings with photos or videos, and if possible, identify the host tree or plant to help systematize information.
How to Report
CUCSur has established the following channels for receiving evidence and confirming the species’ presence:
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 31-7104-0070
CUCSur urges the public to remain calm, avoid handling the caterpillar, and collaborate by providing evidence that helps map its distribution in Jalisco without affecting other organisms in the environment.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: Who issued the warning? A: The Centro Universitario de la Costa Sur (CUCSur) of the Universidad de Guadalajara (UDG).
- Q: What is the dangerous caterpillar? A: The “fluffy caterpillar” or “hairy caterpillar,” scientifically known as the larval stage of Megalopyge opercularis.
- Q: Why is it dangerous? A: Its hidden spines inject a toxin when coming into contact with human skin, causing severe pain, nausea, rapid heart rate, and nervous system affectations.
- Q: What caused its recent appearance? A: Heavy rainfall, linking it to past instances in Guadalajara public parks.
- Q: Who is Luis Eugenio Rivera Cervantes? A: An entomologist and research professor at CUCSur, part of UDG.
- Q: How should the public report sightings? A: Through email ([email protected]) or phone (31-7104-0070), providing photos, videos, and host plant information.
