The animal known for producing silk is the silkworm, specifically the larvae of the silk moth (Bombyx mori). Silkworms spin silk cocoons to protect themselves during their metamorphosis into moths. The silk is a natural protein fiber that has been cultivated for thousands of years, primarily in regions of East Asia. The process of creating silk involves several stages, including breeding silkworms, feeding them mulberry leaves, and eventually harvesting the cocoons. Silk is prized for its softness, luxurious texture, and sheen, making it a highly sought-after material in the textile industry.