The number of instars in the silkworm Anaphe venata was determined using three methods namely: (1) direct observation of cast exuviae by larvae reared through the entire larval stage, (2) use of frequency distributions of head capsule lengths and widths taken from larvae representative of the entire larval stage of the species and (3) morphological observations and examinations of larval segments and anal plates. Seven instars were observed for A. venata. The most reliable method was the direct observation of cast exuviae by larvae reared through the entire larval stage. It is further suggested that either the method of histograms of head capsules or examination of larval segments and anal plates be used to supplement this method for better reliability.
