Caterpillars are controlled from taking over the world in nature mainly by parasites : especially particular species of mites, wasps and flies. The exact relationship of the various species of Lepidoptera with the various species of mites (Acarina), flies (Diptera), and wasps (Hymenoptera) is often very specific, and of great importance in pest control. If you should get some flies and/or wasps emerge from your caterpillar or pupa, you might consider donating them to your local natural history museum or university entomology department, who may have study programs on these parasites.

Cryptoptila immersana caterpillar carrying green mites.

The flies attacking caterpillars come mainly from the family TACHINIDAE.

dieing Manulea replana, caterpillar with cocoons of a number of wasp parasites.

Wasps that attack caterpillars come from a variety of families, including: