In other species in this family, the caterpillars acquire chemical defenses from their host plants, so they are potentially toxic or unpalatable, but despite anecdotal claims that this species may also be venomous, no venom has yet been isolated or identified; adverse reactions are characterized as contact dermatitis.
This species' caterpillars acquire chemical defenses from their host plants, making them potentially toxic or unpalatable. However, despite claims of venom, no venom has been isolated or identified, and adverse reactions are described as contact dermatitis.