SILKWORM LIFE-CYCLE

Silkworms are a species of insect (Bombyx Mori) that is domesticated, meaning they are dependent on humans for survival.Silkworms live happily in the breeding box you provide for them and do not attempt to escape, they lack fear of predators and are used to being handled by humans.The availability of Silkworm Chow makes this a project that can be undertaken at any time of the year.Silkworms grow and cocoon in around 6-8 weeks. In the hotter months of the year the larval (worm stage) can be as short as 21 days. Time from hatching to cocooning (the larval/worm stage) depends on ambient temperature and food availability.  If  worms are kept at a even and adequate temperature and have constant access to food they will grow fast.  Silkworms remain in their cocoons for approximately 10 days before emerging as moths.The Silkworm moths generally do not fly and will usually stay in the breeding box (Male moths may fly briefly or leave the breeding container in search of a female). The Silkworms moths live for approximately 3 days, but can survive up to two weeks.The empty cocoons when prepared correctly, make glossy white silk. This is excellent for Art/Textile projects where students discover the transformation from cocoon to silk. It is also fun to prepare!