Host-based life cycle traits of polyphagous defoliator Cricula trifenestrata Helfer (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae) from Terai region of West Bengal, India

Abstract

Host-based life cycle traits of polyphagous defoliator Cricula trifenestrata Helfer (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae) was studied on Mangifera indica L., Persia bombycina King, Anacardium occidentale L. and Cinnamomum cassia in Terai region of West Bengal. The larvae were heavier when developed on P. bombycina particularly from October-January generation. The amount of consumed (5.204-6.896 gm) and utilized (1.701-2.356 gm) food as well as AD% (24.663-40.1157%) and RCR (0.608-0.669) were lowest in the larvae reared on C. cassia and as such the larvae were lightest (2.801-3.757gm) and needed a longer development period (85.95-149.38 days) than other hosts. The development of C. trifenestrata was faster during March-May due to higher level of food utilization (2.356-2.830 gm), AD% (35.429-41.802%) and RCR (0.669-0.864). Higher quantities of protein and lipid were found in the haemolymph on P. bombycina (121.72-167.24 mg/g and 14.01-32.00%) fed one. The larvae could utilize food resources of both M. indica and A. occidentale equally.