Samia ricini, commonly known as the Castor Silk-Moth, is a species of moth in the family Saturniidae. It is a domesticated species - created by interbreeding various Samia species selected for their silk-producing ability - reared parts of Asia, including India, China, and Southeast Asia, and is known for its role in sericulture, as its silk is used for textile production.
The adult Samia ricini moth is mid sized, with broad, reddish-brown wings that feature characteristic patterns of light and dark markings. The forewings are typically brown with shades of grey, with eye-like patterns that provide some deterrance against predators.
The larvae, or caterpillars, are pale green, blue or white and have small, soft spines along their bodies. They feed on a variety of host plants, including the leaves of Privet, and are particularly well known for feeding on the castor plant (Ricinus communis), which gives them their name "ricini." The caterpillars grow large and after about 4-5 weeks spin a silk cocoon that is harvested for its strong, coarse silk. Unlike the domesticated silkworm (Bombyx mori), which produces fine, long strands of silk, the silk of Samia ricini is more textured and is often used to make more durable fabrics.
Samia ricini plays an important role in the silk industry, particularly in India, where its silk is used to make fabrics.
Host plants: Privet, Lilac, Ivy, Castor.
Difficulty: Very easy (1/10)
Temperature: Room temp.
Lifecycle: Continually brooded; pupae are capable of dormancy
