The Saturniidae are among the largest and showiest moths in North America. This comprehensive work covers the life history and taxonomy of a hundred species and subspecies of these Lepidoptera. The beautiful adults and larvae of all species are illustrated in thirty color plates, which are supported by line drawings of cocoons, distribution maps, and photographs of behavior. More than a natural history guide, this book includes chapters in population biology, life history strategies, disease and parasitoids, and the importance of silk moths of human culture. The systematic account emphasizes genetic differences among populations and the process of speciation and presents new information on experimental hybridization and life histories. For the student, researcher, and naturalist, here is practical information on collecting, rearing, and conducting original research. The entire text is referenced to an extensive bibliography.

Wild silk is very vital biological resource and has a very crucial role in economic and social development of mankind. Wild silk is better than other silks from the view point of healthcare. Therefore, the book contain taxonomy of wild silkmoths, under which 9 new subspecies of Antheraea mylitta have been described for avoiding confusion with ecoraces which refer to Antheraea mylitta indica, A.m. jujubi, A.m. arjuni, A.m. greyi, A.m. kolhapurensis, A.m. koynei, A.m. sathei, A.m. badami and A.m. sahyadricus. The book also contains biology of wild silkmoths Attacus atlas (Linn.), Actias selene Hubner and A.m. kolhapurensis. Rearing techniques for A. atlas, A. selene and A.m. kolhapurensis with different food plants and their assessment by food consumption potential/cocoon characterization and development rate has given special emphasis in the book. Thus, the book is unique on biodiversity of wild silkmoths and the wild silk technology which will be very helpful for students, teachers, farmers, sericulturists and researchers in India and at global scenario.