Giant Silkworm and Royal Moths

Saturniidae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Lepidoptera
Superfamily: Bombycoidea
Family: Saturniidae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Saturniidae: //səˌtɜːrˈnɪɪˌdiː//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Coloradia lois by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Coloradia duffneri by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Coloradia lindseyi by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Coloradia davisi by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Coloradia chiricahua by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Hylesia palcazua by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

Saturniidae, commonly known as saturniids, is a family of large, diverse moths known for their impressive wingspans and various feeding habits during the larval stage. The adults are characterized by their reduced mouthparts and reliance on stored lipids, thus spending most of their short lives reproducing instead of feeding.

Physical Characteristics

Adults are characterized by large, lobed wings, heavy bodies covered in hair-like scales, and reduced mouthparts. They lack a frenulum, but hindwings overlap the forewings. Some are brightly colored with translucent eyespots or 'windows' on their wings. Males generally have larger, broader antennae than females.

Identification Tips

Wingspans range from 25 mm to 150 mm (1 to 6 in), with notable species like the Atlas moth having wingspans up to 12 in (30 cm). Males can be distinguished by their feather-like antennae, which are broader than those of females.

Habitat

Tropical and subtropical forests and areas, with a prevalence in wooded regions across the New World tropics and Mexico.

Distribution

Found globally, with the highest diversity in tropical and subtropical areas. Approximately 75 species in North America, with around 12 species in Europe, including the emperor moth.

Diet

Lavae feed on a wide variety of plants, predominantly the foliage of trees and shrubs. Some species, particularly from the Hemileucinae subfamily, feed on grasses. Adults do not feed.

Life Cycle

Saturniidae can be univoltine, producing one generation per year, or multivoltine, producing multiple broods. The number of broods can vary based on environmental conditions. Pupae can either emerge early or enter diapause depending on length of day and temperature.

Reproduction

Adult females emit pheromones to attract males, with males traveling distances of up to a mile to locate them. Females that mate with multiple males can produce more eggs.

Ecosystem Role

Some species are serious defoliators, while a few are utilized for silk production and are a food source for humans, e.g., the mopane worm.

Economic Impact

Some species are important in silk production, including the Chinese tussah moth and others. A few species cause defoliation in economically important trees.

Cultural Significance

Some Saturniidae are raised as educational pets in schools due to their impressive lifecycle and appearance, making them a tool for teaching.

Health Concerns

Caterpillars of the genus Lonomia can produce a deadly toxin, while others may have urticating hairs that cause stings, making them potentially harmful.

Evolution

The Saturniidae family is most diverse in the Neotropics. Its ancient subfamilies are exclusively found in the Americas, suggesting origins in this region.

Misconceptions

Despite their size and appearance, many Saturniidae species are harmless adults. Misunderstanding their capability of stinging or poisonous characteristics can lead to wrong perceptions.