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Silkworm

Silkworm

Bombyx mori

A species of Bombyx, Also known as Domesticated silkmoth, Mulberry silk worm

The silken threads produced by silkworm during its larval stage have been highly coveted for millennia, manifesting as a luxurious fabric in human society. Remarkably, this creature has a singular diet, feeding exclusively on the leaves of its primary host plant from which it extracts the necessary nutrients to facilitate its transition into a non-feeding, winged adult.

General Info About Silkworm
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Attributes of Silkworm
Colors
Brown
Black
White
Habitat
Wild
Larva Food Source
Morus alba leaves (white mulberry), morus rubra leaves (red mulberry), morus nigra leaves (black mulberry), artificial silkworm diet, other morus species leaves
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Vestigial
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Species Status of Silkworm
Widespread
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Distribution Area of Silkworm
China, India, Korea, Nepal, Japan, the West, far eastern regions of Russia
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Life Cycle of Silkworm
Egg The initial stage of the silkworm life cycle begins with the egg. Opaque or translucent, these tiny, spherical or oval-shaped structures house the developing embryo. The egg size is minimal, and the color often blends with the surroundings for camouflage.
Larva Upon hatching, the larval silkworm emerges as a small caterpillar. Growth during this stage is rapid, involving multiple molts and increases in size. Larvae exhibit different color patterns, evolving as they develop, primarily focusing on consumption for energy storage.
Pupal The silkworm then forms a pupa, a transitional stage where transformation occurs. It is typically inactive, externally showcasing a hardened case. The appearance significantly differs from the larva, with the pupa often being darker and more compact.
Adult As an adult, the silkworm undergoes no further molting. The shape is distinct with developed wings, while the size is larger, and the coloration is vibrant. Adults have functional reproductive organs, with activities centered around mating and dispersal.
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Predators of Silkworm Larvae
Birds, rodents, wasps, ants, beetles
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Predators of Adult Silkworm
Birds, bats, spiders, ants, rodents
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Interesting Facts About Silkworm
Silkworm can only fly for short distances due to the domestication process which led to underdeveloped flight muscles.
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Scientific Classification of Silkworm
Tips for Finding Silkworm
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Youth Habitat of Silkworm
Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Adult Habitat of Silkworm
Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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How Can You Attract Silkworm
For larval stages, fresh mulberry leaves, which are the primary food source, are used to attract silkworm. For adults, they do not feed; therefore, food-based traps are ineffective.
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Habitat Preferences of Silkworm Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of silkworm are typically found on the underside of mulberry leaves where they were laid by the female. As larvae, or more commonly known as silkworms, silkworm can be found munching on mulberry leaves, having a preference for the temperate sericulture farms. The pupal stage takes place within a cocoon, which the larva constructs by spinning silk around itself, usually attached to twigs or branches of the mulberry trees or the racks provided in the cultivation setups. When searching for these different stages, one must look among mulberry leaves for eggs or larvae, on branches, or within silkworm rearing environments for cocoons. Adult silkworm moths are weak fliers; thus, they are typically encountered close to the breeding grounds, often within the confines of the production farms.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Silkworm
The suitable time to find silkworm depends on the stage of its life cycle. Eggs are often present shortly after adults mate. Larvae can be found during the growing season when mulberry leaves are available. Pupae are present during the transformation phase, and adults emerge when the environment is warm enough for them to survive.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Silkworm
Warm, humid weather with a temperature range of 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) is ideal for locating silkworm in its various stages of development.
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How and Where Can You Find Silkworm at Different Life Stages
Egg Eggs of silkworm are usually laid on the underside of mulberry leaves. To find them, carefully inspect the leaves, especially during the breeding season.
Larva Silkworm larvae, or caterpillars, are voracious eaters of mulberry leaves. Locate them by searching mulberry trees and examining the leaves for signs of feeding.
Pupal During the pupa stage, silkworm is encased in a cocoon, often found attached to twigs or leaves. Look for these cocoons in or near mulberry trees. They are typically oval and may have a silky sheen.
Adult Silkworm adults do not feed and are short-lived, so they are often found near breeding areas or resting on surfaces. Since they are not attracted to light, check around the base of mulberry trees or on vegetation.
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