A strange white cocoon on the tree trunk causes astonishment. Read here how and why the large, white cocoon is created on the tree. That's why you shouldn't remove the white web.
How does a white cocoon form on a tree trunk?
A white cocoon on the tree trunk is created from a thread of up to 3000 meters long from aSilkworm The caterpillar of the silk moth butterfly spins the protective covering for its pupation and metamorphosis. Do not remove the white cocoon as there is no danger to the tree.
What is the purpose of a white cocoon on a tree trunk?
A white cocoon on the tree trunk serves toprotect larvae. In general, arthropods use this particular form of protective covering, like insects and arachnids. The most famous white cocoons are made bysilk moth caterpillars.
Silk moth or mulberry moth (Bombyx mori) are butterflies native to China. The caterpillars have been bred there for 5,000 years to produce silk. Since silk production became established in Europe, the white cocoons can also be admired in this country on mulberry trees, whose leaves serve as food for the caterpillars.
How does a white cocoon form on a tree trunk?
A white cocoon on the tree trunk is made by asilkworm. Silkworms are ready to spin 30 days after hatching. At this point, the caterpillars have eaten their fill of the leaves of the mulberry tree (Morus). This is how a white cocoon is created for the doll's rest:
- The silkworm spins a web of flocked silk to anchor the cocoon.
- Hanging in the anchor, the silkworm spins an egg-shaped, white protective covering from a thread up to 3000 meters long.
- A finished cocoon is on average 10 cm long and 5 cm wide.
Should you remove a white cocoon from a tree trunk?
You shoulddo not remove a white cocoon from the tree trunk A miracle of nature takes place inside the protective cover. The silkworm undergoes a metamorphosis into the beautiful butterfly. During this process, their organs are completely remodeled. The result is a new creature with white-powdered, yellow-brown-striped wings. There is no danger to the tree. Although silk moth butterflies have colonized local locations in Germany and Austria for 100 years, no significant damage has been recorded.
Tip
Mulberry tree is hardy in Germany
If you plant a white mulberry tree (Morus alba) in the garden, if you're lucky you'll be able to admire the wonder of white silkmoth cocoons up close. Mulberry trees are related to fig trees. Both deciduous trees share a common origin and comparable winter hardiness. In late summer, the inconspicuous catkin flowers transform into tasty mulberries, which are also a sought-after source of food for birds, small mammals and insects.
