Studies on the Biology and Effect of Seasonal Variation on the Growth and Silk Production by Erisilk Worm Philosamia Bioini Hutt.

Abstract

The studies on the biology of Erisilk worm Philosamia
ricini were undertaken, keeping in view to explore the
possibility of its successful rearing in different months of
the year in the semi-arid regions of Rajasthan where
castor is grown abundantly with a little irrigation. Studies
were conducted on local castor variety and was found
that total life cycle of Erisilk worm is about 46, 59 and
88 days in first second and third generation respectively.
During August-September the mean temperature 27.34°C±
5°C and humidity 78% ± )0 were found most favourable
for larval growth, weight of cocoon and in shortening
the duration of life cycle. Where as the period February
to April when mean temperature 1430e ± SOC and humidity
38.7% ± 10 were found unfavourable. Present studies
have proved that farmers can take the rearing of castor
silk worm in the region successfully, except in the summer
months.