On biological parameters of tea looper Biston (Buzura) suppressaria (Lepidoptera: Geometridae) as influenced by host plants

Biology of tea looper, Biston (Buzura) suppressaria Guen. was studied on three hosts viz.tea, mango and rhododendron. Significant variations in the stadial period of 4^th and 5^th instar caterpillars reared on tea and mango was observed. The mean pupal duration of B. suppressaria was maximum on mango than in tea. Fecundity on tea was significantly higher than on mango. Incubation period was found to be almost equal in both tea and mango. Mean longevity of female was significantly high on mango followed by tea. In case of males also longevity was significantly more on mango. The weight gained by both male and female moths was more on tea. In rhododendron, the caterpillars failed to complete their biology. Based on minimum larval mortality, shorter larval development period and higher fecundity and body weight, tea appeared to be the most preferred and supporting host among the hosts evaluated.