The body of the moth is divisible into head, thorax and abdomen. The body surface is covered with scales. The silkworm moth is dioecious i.e. the sexes are separate. Fertilization is internal. Immediately after emerging from the pupa the moths mate, lay eggs and die.
Male Moth vs Female Moth
Male Moth
|
Female Moth
|
Smaller in size | Larger in size |
Active | Sluggish |
Comparatively bigger antenna. | Comparatively smaller antenna. |
Abdomen narrow | Abdomen bloated |
Posterior end has a pair of hooks called harper or claspers. | Posterior end had a knob like projection with sensory hairs. |
Ovipositer absent. | Posterior end of the abdomen has a protractile knob like ovipositor |
Eight abdomenal segments are visible. | Seven abdomenal segments are visible. |