Ricini Moth (Samia cynthia ricini)

The ricini is a relative of the Cynthia moth, although its markings are closer to an Atlas or Forbesi moth. I have put it in the category of a Tropical Saturniidae because it originates from India. Because it is an easy moth to breed, and because the larva feeds on the commonly found Ailanthus, the ricini has become a favorite of moth breeders throughout the U.S.

As with all Saturniidae moths, the ricini does all its eating in the larva stage. The adult moth has no mouth and cannot eat.

Click on any of the thumbnails to get a larger picture.

	These are third and fourth instar ricini feeding on Ailanthus.
	These are ricini cocoons. Most of them are a golden brown color, but sometimes they will spin some white cocoons.
	Adult ricini moths are very similar to the cynthia adult. The main difference is the purple stripe toward the outside of the wings. The wing color is also more of a hazel, as opposed to the tan of the cynthia.
	There are a number of subspecies of ricini. To the left is a ricini advena. It is characterized by the olive background on the wings and body.