How Big Can a Silkworm Grow?

A silkworm, specifically in its larval stage before transforming, can reach a **maximum length of 75 mm (about 3 inches)**. This growth occurs over a significant period as it consumes mulberry leaves.

During its lifecycle, the silkworm larva undergoes rapid growth. The reference indicates that this maximum size is attained during a 45-day growing period. After reaching this size and maturity, the silkworm enters the pupation stage, where it spins a cocoon made of a single, continuous silk strand.

Here's a summary of the silkworm's maximum size based on the provided reference:

| Characteristic | Measurement         | Notes                |
| :------------- | :------------------ | :------------------- |
| **Maximum Length** | 75 mm               | Approx. 3 inches     |
| **Growing Period** | 45 days             | Stage before pupation |

This significant growth prepares the silkworm for the next stage of its life cycle, where it pupates inside its protective silk cocoon. The cocoon itself is quite large relative to the silkworm, averaging about 915 metres (1,000 yards) of silk filament.

Understanding the silkworm's size is key to appreciating the volume of silk it can produce from its relatively small body.