Kokonhülle

Kokonhülle refers to the protective casing formed by an insect larva, most commonly a moth or butterfly caterpillar, during its pupal stage. This structure is also known as a cocoon. The primary purpose of the kokonhülle is to shield the developing pupa from predators, environmental hazards such as extreme temperatures and moisture, and physical damage.

The material used to construct the kokonhülle varies significantly among species. Many moth larvae secrete a silk-like substance from specialized glands, often from their salivary glands. This liquid silk hardens upon contact with air, forming a tough, fibrous outer layer. Some species incorporate external materials into their kokonhülle, such as leaves, twigs, or grains of sand, to enhance camouflage or structural integrity. The appearance, size, and texture of the kokonhülle are highly species-specific, serving as a distinguishing characteristic for identification.

Once the metamorphosis is complete and the adult insect emerges, it breaks free from the kokonhülle. In some cases, the empty kokonhülle remains attached to a surface, while in others, it is shed or consumed. The study of kokonhüllen plays a role in entomology, aiding in the identification of insect species, understanding their life cycles, and even contributing to fields like sericulture, where silk cocoons are harvested for their valuable fibers. The strength and unique properties of some kokonhüllen have also inspired biomimicry research.