A Case Study on The Economy and Conservation of Samia Ricini – A Bio Resource of Assam, Ne India

Assam is a state situated in northeast India, where sericulture is practiced traditionally. Culture of Eri silkworm Samia ricini is a sustainable form of agro-based cottage industry of Assam. Sericulture can fulfil the demand for the production of cloth for the winter season and Eri pupa is treated as a delicious food item. The species Samia ricini is a more recent taxonomic designation for the same species Philosamia ricini. Eri silkworms primarily feed on the leaves of the Ricinus communis (castor) as host plant followed by Heteropanase fragrance (kesseru). Since castor is available in a very limited amount due to environmental stresses like flood and drought, habitat loss due to human activities like construction of road and buildings Heteropanase fragrance preferred over Ricinus communis as alternative host plant for rearing the silkworm. The present study was carried out at Mirza Kamrup district Assam India during 16/04/2022 to 20/07/2022. Geographically Mirza is situated at 26°5'35"N latitude, 91°31'55"E longitude and 55.00m/180.45 ft. altitude. We have found that the highest length in the mature Larvae is 9 cm and weight is 9-10 g on the highest temperature of 32°. The autumn season is best for the growth of Eri silkworm and the production of Eri silk. By sustainable management practice, agroforestry, improve breeding techniques, improving disease-resistant breeds, promoting sericulture as a heritage of Assam can conserve Samia ricini -a bio resource of Assam NE India.