INSECT FAUNAL CHECKLIST OF MUGA ECOSYSTEM IN NORTH EAST INDIA

摘要

Muga silkworm, Antheraea assamensis (Heifer) (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae) is endemic species, which produce golden natural silk. Muga silkworm is found exclusively in rain forest ecosystem of Himalayan Foot Hills in North Eastern India, especially in Assam and Meghalaya due to its unique climatic conditions. Muga culture is of considerable economic importance and closely associated with the life, tradition and culture of the tribal people. This study was conducted in six states (Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland) of North East India for collection, preservation and identification of insect pests, predators, pollinators, and natural enemies of muga ecosystem. This study updates the earlier status that only 30 species had been known from muga ecosystem to 203 species, as enlisted herein.