Assessment of Arthropod Biodiversity in Mulberry Plants During the Summer Season

X., Venci Candida; P.T., Arokya Glory,; S., Prakash Shoba,; G.S.,, Ashmi Jose,; R., Resebha,; B., Arokiya Sheril,; S., Sahaya Jasmine Nilani,

doi:10.21608/eajbsa.2023.325683

Assessment of Arthropod Biodiversity in Mulberry Plants During the Summer Season

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Department of Zoology, Holy Cross College, Nagercoil, Tamilnadu, India.

10.21608/eajbsa.2023.325683

Abstract

The silkworm industry plays a crucial role in providing employment opportunities, particularly in regions like Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, West Bengal, Jharkhand, and Tamil Nadu. This industry heavily relies on mulberry plants (Morus alba L.) as the primary food source for silkworms (Bombyx mori). The quality of mulberry leaves directly influences cocoon quality and colour, making Moriculture pivotal in sericulture. Mulberry plants face various challenges, including diseases and pest infestations, affecting leaf growth and silk quality. This study, conducted at Holy Cross College, Tamil Nadu, aims to identify and analyze arthropods damaging mulberry leaves. Arthropods from two classes, Insecta and Arachnida, were identified and classified into orders, families, and genera. Hemiptera emerged as the most diverse order among Insects. Notably, sap-sucking insects like mealy bugs, hoppers, and jassids were observed, consistent with previous research. The Shannon Weinner index, Species richness and species evenness were found to be more in the mulberry garden as per this study. The study's findings emphasized the need for integrated pest management strategies to enhance mulberry leaf production for the sericulture industry's sustainability.

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