What does a buterfly larva eat?

Leaves

A butterfly larva, also known as a caterpillar, primarily consumes leaves of host plants specific to its butterfly species. Caterpillars rely on foliage to obtain essential nutrients during their active period of growth and tissue development. The diverse dietary preferences among different butterfly species lead to specialization on various host plants or even single host plant species. As herbivores, caterpillars play a key role in nature's food web and the dynamics of plant abundance in specific ecosystems. Their feeding habits influence plant populations, impact plant distribution, and shape diverse habitats.