Evaluation of Growth and Development of Tasar Silkworm Antheraea proylei J on Selected Oak Species

The study investigates the nutritional and environmental factors affecting the tasar silkworm Antheraea proylei J., a polyphagous insect feeding on selected oak species, Quercus serrata Thunb. and Quercus incana Roxb. under standard conditions. Parameters like ingestion, assimilation, tissue growth, and nutritional efficiencies were evaluated. Maximum larval duration (46.83 days) and significantly higher leaf consumption were observed in larvae fed on Q. serrata. A significantly higher assimilation and tissue growth occurred in larvae fed on Q. serrata. AD and ECD were more efficient in larvae on Q. serrata, while ECI was higher on Q. incana. Moth emergence was notably higher in larvae fed on Q. serrata (males 40%, females 60%). The optimal rearing temperature was 25± 3°C. Leaf analysis showed that Q. incana had higher chlorophyll content and bioactive compounds, supporting its suitability as a host plant.