Cocoons of Chinese slikmoth
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Cocoons of Chinese slikmoth
Two cocoons in process of being spun by larvae (caterpillars) of the Saturnid moth, Samia cynthia. The cocoons are anchored to twigs of golden privet, Ligustrum vulgare, and each will eventually contain a pupa. In the picture, the larvae are just discernible beneath the silk covering. Each cocoon is approximately 5cm long. Silk is produced from two components, fibroin and sericin. The diameter of each strand is approximately 15microns, and each final cocoon will contain several hundred metres of silk. S. cynthia is one source of wild silk". Commercially produced silk is made by a different moth, Bombyx mori, an entirely domesticated species unknown in the wild. S. cynthia is native to Central and Eastern China, but is now also found in parts of Europe and the USA following importation"
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Media ID 9223403
© DR JEREMY BURGESS/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Caterpillar China Cocoon Fibroin Larva Samia Cynthia Silk Silkmoth Wild Silk Ligustrum Vulgare Privet
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate process of cocoon spinning by the larvae of the Saturnid moth, Samia cynthia. Two cocoons are depicted in this image, delicately anchored to twigs of golden privet. As we observe closely, we can discern the tiny larvae beneath their silk coverings. Measuring approximately 5cm long, each cocoon is a remarkable creation that will eventually house a pupa. The silk used in these cocoons is derived from two components: fibroin and sericin. Each strand has a diameter of around 15 microns, and astonishingly, each final cocoon contains several hundred meters of this fine silk. S. cynthia, native to Central and Eastern China but now also found in parts of Europe and the USA due to importation, serves as one source for wild silk production. It's important to note that commercially produced silk comes from an entirely domesticated species called Bombyx mori. The beauty captured within this photograph lies not only in its aesthetic appeal but also in its representation of nature's intricate processes. It reminds us of the wonders hidden within our natural world – from caterpillars transforming into moths inside these protective cocoons to the delicate threads they produce with such precision. Science Photo Library presents us with yet another stunning glimpse into nature's marvels through this mesmerizing image print.
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