Indian Journal of Entomology

Antheraea proylei Jolly moths were observed for the effect of resting periods of 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 hr before allowing them to mate at fixed periods of 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 hr at room temperature. Brief resting period of 2 hr combined with 4 hr mating period resulted in highest fecundity to the tune of 179 and 223 eggs in the first and second crops, respectively. Maximum hatchability of 91% was observed at 4 hr of resting and 10 hr of mating in the first crop, and 94% at 6 hr of resting and 10 hr of mating period in the second crop. Resting period between 2–6 hr and 8–10 hr of mating periods were the optimum combinations for successful cocoon production in oak tasar silkworm, A. proylei.