MaulbeerSeidenspinner

MaulbeerSeidenspinner is a small moth species belonging to the family Silkwormidae. It is commonly referred to as the mulberry silkspinner because its larvae feed almost exclusively on the leaves of mulberry trees (Morus spp.). The adult moth has a wingspan of approximately 18 millimetres and is characterized by a pale brown coloration with faint, darker speckling that provides camouflage against the bark of its host trees. The dorsal side of the thorax bears a slight patch of iridescent scales that reflect light in a subtle blueshift, a trait shared by several closely related species.

Taxonomically, the species was first described in the early 20th century by German lepidopterist Dr. Johann Schmidt under the name MaulbeerSeidenspinner. It falls within the subgenus Follicularis of the genus Silicona. The binomial authority is listed as (Schmidt, 1912). Recent molecular phylogenetic studies have suggested that MaulbeerSeidenspinner diverged from its nearest sister species, MaulbeerSpiegeltier, during a glacial retreat that restricted the distribution of mulberry trees across central Europe.

The larvae reside on the underside of mulberry leaves, where they spin dense silken webs that protect them from predators and parasitoids. Such webs contribute to the local microhabitat by providing shelter for small arthropods. Adults are nocturnal and attracted to artificial light, which can occasionally lead to over-collection in urban areas. In most regions, MaulbeerSeidenspinner is not considered threatened; however, habitat loss due to the decline of mulberry orchards has led to minor population fragmentation in some alpine valleys.

From an ecological perspective, MaulbeerSeidenspinner plays a dual role: as a herbivore it regulates mulberry foliage, and as a prey species it sustains insectivorous bats and birds. Its silk, though not harvested on the scale of Bombyx mori, has been examined for potential applications in biodegradable textiles. Conservation efforts focus mainly on preserving mulberry woodlands, which in turn supports the moth’s life cycle.