Study of Behavioural responses and ecological adaptations in tropical tasar silk moth (Antheraea mylitta D.)

Tasar silk, commonly known as the “wild silk of India,” accounts for around 8-10% of the nation's total silk production (CSB, 2022). Silk moth plays a crucial role in tropical sericulture and forest-based livelihoods in India. The present study was carried out to investigate behavioral responses and ecological adaptations of this tropical tasar silk moth in relation to climatic variables, host plant interactions, and habitat conditions as behavioral responses and ecological adaptations enable these insects to survive under diverse environmental conditions & colonize diverse habitat. Field observations revealed that feeding rhythm, resting posture, and shelter-seeking behavior are important strategies to mitigate thermal and humidity stress. Ecological synchronization with host plant phenology significantly enhanced larval survival and cocoon quality.