Antheraea

Antheraea is a genus of moths in the family Saturniidae, commonly known as silk moths. The genus is placed in the subfamily Saturniinae, typically within the tribe Saturniini. It includes several large species whose larvae produce commercially important wild silks, often referred to as tussar silk. Species are distributed across Asia, with many inhabiting forests and temperate to tropical regions, and one species, Antheraea polyphemus, occurring in North America.

Adults in the Antheraea genus are typically sizable moths with stout bodies and broad wings that often bear eye-like markings. Wingspans vary by species and can range from roughly 7 to 15 centimeters. Like many silk moths, adults usually have reduced mouthparts and live only briefly for reproduction, while the larval stage feeds voraciously on a variety of deciduous trees and shrubs.

The life cycle includes eggs laid on or near suitable host plants, caterpillars that feed and grow until pupation, and cocoons in which metamorphosis occurs. The silken cocoons are spun by larvae and, in many species, nature suits the production of tussar silk rather than the finer domesticated silk.

Economically, several Antheraea species are important for wild or traditional sericulture. Notable examples include Antheraea pernyi (Chinese tussar moth), Antheraea paphia (tasar moth), Antheraea mylitta (Mysore tasar moth), Antheraea assamensis (Muga moth), and Antheraea yamamai (Japanese oak silkmoth). These species contribute to regional textile industries and are valued for their durable, textured silks.