Historical reference: Do not rely on this information. It is very old. About this collection
Geometer Moths, or Geometry, a subsection of moths, characterised by the fact that the larvae have only ten legs - viz. the six true legs and two pairs of prolegs. These correspond to the third and fourth pairs, as the first and second pairs of prolegs are undeveloped. The name is derived from the peculiar character of the gait; the prolegs are at the hinder end of the body, and the true legs are at the front, the caterpillar, therefore, attaches itself by its front legs, and then brings forward the prolegs, the body being bent up into a graceful arch; having secured hold with its prolegs, it then loosens the hold of the legs, and straightens out the body.