Abstract
Antheraea mylitta Drury is a polyphagous, semi domesticated tropical tasar silk insect which feeds on a number of food plants available in the forest. The fifth instar larva is the most crucial stage for growth and post larval life. So, the growth parameters like length, breadth and weight of fifth instar larva was evaluated in different seasons at different altitudes. Significantly the highest values of growth parameters were recorded in the larvae raised on Asan (Terminalia alata W. & A.) food plant at both the lower and medium altitudes during autumn season as well as at lower altitude during winter season. Basing on growth performance of the fifth instar larvae of A. mylitta, the eight food plants considered for study during autumn season at both the lower and medium altitudes were graded in the order Asan > Sal > Arjun > Ber > Sidha > Dha > Bahada > Jamun. However, the eight food plants chosen for study during winter season at lower altitude were graded in the order Asan > Arjun > Sal > Ber > Sidha > Dha > Bahada > Jamun on the basis of larval growth performance.
