description Domestic silk moth Overview
The domestic silk moth, Bombyx mori, is a domesticated moth in the family Bombycidae and the insect used in conventional mulberry silk production. It was derived from the wild silk moth Bombyx mandarina through long-term breeding in East Asia, especially China. Larvae feed on mulberry leaves and spin cocoons from which silk filament can be reeled. Unlike its wild relatives, the domesticated form is dependent on human cultivation and handling.
help Domestic silk moth FAQ
What is the scientific name of the domestic silk moth?
The domestic silk moth is Bombyx mori. It belongs to the family Bombycidae and is the main insect used in conventional mulberry silk production.
What does Bombyx mori eat?
Bombyx mori larvae feed mainly on mulberry leaves. Their specialized diet is one reason mulberry cultivation became closely linked with silk production.
Where did the domestic silk moth come from?
Bombyx mori was derived from the wild silk moth Bombyx mandarina through long-term breeding in East Asia. China played a major role in the early development of domesticated silk production.
Can domestic silk moths fly like wild moths?
Domestication has made Bombyx mori heavily dependent on human care and less capable than its wild relatives. Adults have reduced flight ability and live mainly to reproduce after emerging from the cocoon.
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