Early Thorn vs Japanese Silk Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Early Thorn Japanese Silk Moth
Scientific Name Selenia dentaria Antheraea yamamai
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Geometridae Saturniidae
Size 32-40 mm wingspan Wingspan 110-150 mm
Habitat Underground Indoors
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
Regions Europe Japan, Korea, China
Conservation Least Concern Not Evaluated

Early Thorn

A moth that resembles a dead leaf when at rest, with twig-like resting posture. The spring generation is larger and darker than the summer generation. Comes readily to light.

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Did You Know?

When at rest, this moth perches with wings raised over its back like a butterfly, mimicking a dead leaf.

Japanese Silk Moth

A large wild silk moth native to Japan with striking yellow-brown wings bearing prominent eyespots. Its silk was historically used to produce high-quality tensan fabric.

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Did You Know?

Its silk, called tensan, is naturally green-tinged and was reserved for Japanese imperial garments.