Which material do moths prefer to consume?

Moths, particularly the larvae known as caterpillars, are known to prefer natural fibers over synthetic ones, and their primary diet consists of protein-based materials. Silk is a preferred material for many species of moths, especially the infamous clothes moths, which are especially attracted to animal-based fibers like wool and silk due to their keratin content. Silk, being an animal fiber produced by silkworms, offers the nutrients that moth larvae seek for growth and development.

While cotton is a natural fiber, it lacks the proteins that moths are particularly drawn to, and synthetic fibers don’t provide the nutrients necessary for their survival. Thus, silk stands out as the most appealing material for moths compared to the other options provided.