saturniid

Saturniid refers to any member of the family Saturniidae, commonly known as the emperor moths or giant silk moths. This is a large family of moths found across the world, except for Antarctica. They are characterized by their impressive size, often boasting the largest wingspans of any insect. Many species are also known for their vibrant colors and intricate patterns, which can include eyespots and other decorative markings.

A distinguishing feature of saturniids is the presence of feathery antennae, particularly prominent in males, which are used to detect pheromones from females. The larval stage, or caterpillar, of saturniids is typically large and often possesses spines or tubercles, serving as a defense mechanism. These caterpillars are voracious eaters, feeding on the leaves of various plants.

Upon reaching maturity, the caterpillar spins a silk cocoon, often incorporating leaves or debris from its surroundings. Inside this protective casing, the larva undergoes metamorphosis into a pupa and then into the adult moth. Adult saturniids are generally short-lived, with lifespans ranging from a few days to a couple of weeks. Their primary purpose during this adult stage is reproduction. Unlike many other moth families, adult saturniids lack functional mouthparts and do not feed, relying solely on energy reserves built up during their larval phase. Their economic importance is mainly related to silk production, with some species, like the eri silk moth, being cultivated for their strong and lustrous silk.