Wild silk-producing insect species are multipurpose insects that produce high-quality silk and include attractive moths valued by collectors. The African species of wild silkmoths include three major families: Saturniidae (Ephiphora and Argema species); Lasiocampidae (Gonometa species); and Thaumetopoeidae (Anaphe, Epanaphe, and Hyposoides species), and all of these have significant economic importance. Anaphe panda has significant potential in many African countries as a source of income for rural communities and conservation of biodiversity. In Kenya, A. panda is primarily found in the Kakamega rainforest, a mild-altitude tropical rainforest. Anaphe silk cocoon collection and processing is an emerging field for communities around the forest as a source of off-farm income. More thorough investigations on Anaphe cocoon nests and fibers are necessary to locate and extract the fibers needed for further research. However, a comprehensive study on A. panda silk has not yet been documented. (Kebede et all)

The International Journal of Insect Science paper reports on the composition, structure, and properties of the cocoon nests and fibers obtained from A. panda silk. Author Addis Kebede discusses the research and conclusions of his paper Structure, Composition, and Properties of Silk.

How did you become interested in studying the structure, composition, and properties of silk from the African wild Silkmoth?

The African wild silkmoths are fascinating insects with numerous economic and conservation importance. These include harvesting of silk fibers, dietary value for local communities and aesthetic values from their colourful appearances. However, these insects and their use have been restricted at the local communities. In order to bring these species to the scientific and commercial spotlight, studies to understand their biology, distribution and properties should be done. That was how the design of my research project drafted

What was previously known about African Wild Silkmoth?  How has your work in this area advanced understanding of it?

The previous studies of the African wild silkmoths focused on biology, host distribution, natural enemies and designing methods of processing. My work has greatly contributed in comprehensively understanding the structures, properties and composition of the silk fibers which have tremendous importance in recommending these fibers for other application than the traditional textile industry.

What do regard as being the most important aspect of the results of your research?

The most important aspect of the research is the information generated on the cocoon structure and properties of the fibers. This information can help improve the fiber outcome after degumming of the cocoon nests due to the difference in the properties of the cocoon layers. It can also lead to subsequent research intervention in designing and application of degumming methods for the cocoon layers.

What was the greatest difficulty you encountered in studying the Silkmoth?

One of the greatest difficulties was the lack of literature on the African wild silks in general. The seasonality of the cocoons and the absence of well equipped laboratories to conduct the study are other major challenges.

The article Structure, Composition, and Properties of Silk is freely available to download, comment on and share

 

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