Hodges#7759

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Samia cynthia: //ˈseɪ.mi.ə ˈsɪn.θi.ə//

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Images

Summary

Samia cynthia, commonly known as the ailanthus silkmoth, is a large saturniid moth originally introduced from China in the late 1800s. It is known for producing silk, specifically eri silk, and has distinct wing patterns and characteristics. The species has a patchy distribution in North America, particularly along the eastern coastal areas.

Physical Characteristics

Very large wings measuring 113–125 mm (4.4–4.9 in), with quarter-moon shaped spots on both upper and lower wings, whitish and yellow stripes, and a brown background. Eyespots are present on the outer forewings.

Identification Tips

Look for the large wings with distinctive quarter-moon shapes and yellow stripes, as well as the presence of eyespots on the forewings.

Habitat

Open areas, near and in cities.

Distribution

Spotty distribution along the Atlantic coast from Connecticut to Georgia and west to northern Kentucky; found in many areas of Canada and the United States, as well as introduced populations in other regions.

Diet

Feeds on a variety of trees and shrubs, primarily Ailanthus (tree of heaven), birch, ash, elm, alder, wild cherry, maple, lilac, willow, and apple.

Life Cycle

The life cycle includes eggs, larvae (caterpillars), pupae, and adult moths. Eggs are laid in rows on leaves, and larvae are gregarious at first but become solitary in later instars.

Reproduction

Females prepare to mate in the evening or night after emerging in late morning. Adult moths have no mouth parts and do not eat or drink.

Ecosystem Role

As a silk-producing moth, it plays a role in ecosystems as a silk producer and as a food source for various predators during different life stages.

Economic Impact

Used to produce silk fabric, but not as domesticated as the common silkworm, Bombyx mori.

Similar Taxa

• Bombyx mori
• S. cynthia ricini

Misconceptions

There is debate about whether true wild populations still exist as images primarily come from captive, hand-raised populations.

Tags

• Lepidoptera
• Saturniidae
• silkmoth
• Samia cynthia
• invasive species