Ever been captivated (or slightly horrified) by a hornworm decimating your tomato plants? These plump, green caterpillars are notorious garden pests, but their story doesn't end with them becoming bigger, plant-eating machines. So, what do hornworms *really* turn into? The answer is quite beautiful: they transform into impressive moths!
Specifically, most hornworms you encounter are likely tomato hornworms or tobacco hornworms, which become the Five-Spotted Hawkmoth (Manduca quinquemaculata) or the Carolina Sphinx Moth (Manduca sexta), respectively. These moths are large, with wingspans reaching up to 5 inches! They're also important pollinators, visiting flowers at dusk and night to sip nectar.
Think of those voracious hornworms as nature's way of feeding the next generation of pollinators. While they might frustrate gardeners, knowing they become these magnificent moths offers a different perspective on their role in the ecosystem. So, next time you see a hornworm, remember its incredible future transformation!
