Saturniidae

Saturniidae, commonly known as saturniids or emperor moths, is a family of large moths in the superfamily Bombycoidea. The group comprises about 2,300 described species across numerous genera and is distributed worldwide, with the greatest diversity in tropical regions. Members are typically medium to very large, often with broad wings bearing striking coloration and conspicuous eyespots. Adults usually have reduced or nonfunctional mouthparts and live only briefly, relying on energy stores from the larval stage for reproduction. Caterpillars are generally robust, often spiny or hairy, and feed on a variety of trees and shrubs. Most species spin silken cocoons in which pupation occurs.

In ecology, saturniids are largely nocturnal or crepuscular. Adults seldom feed, prioritizing reproduction and dispersal. Males often possess well-developed antennae for pheromone detection and may actively seek mates. Some species are valued for silk production; wild or semi-domesticated forms of Antheraea and Samia genera provide silk (tasar or tropical silk), distinct from Bombyx mori silk.

Notable species and genera include the Atlas moth (Attacus atlas), among the largest moths by wingspan; Saturnia pyri, the European giant peacock moth; Actias luna, the Luna moth; Antheraea polyphemus, the Polyphemus moth; and Samia cynthia, the Ailanthus silkmoth. Conservation concerns affect many saturniid species due to habitat loss, environmental change, and pesticide exposure, particularly in tropical regions where many species are endemic or have restricted ranges.