The Indian Moon Moth in the Himalayan States: A Natural Marvel of the High Mountains
Sourabh Maheshwari*
Dept. of Entomology, College of Agriculture, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar, Udham Singh Nagar, Uttarakhand (263 145), India
Dharanikota Lalithambica Devi
Dept. of Entomology, College of Agriculture, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar, Udham Singh Nagar, Uttarakhand (263 145), India
DOI: NIL
Keywords: Actias selene, Conservation, Himalayan region, Indian moon moth
Abstract
The majestic Himalayan region, with its towering peaks and pristine landscapes, is not only a haven for trekkers and nature enthusiasts but also home to a remarkable creature like the Indian Moon Moth, scientifically known as Actias selene. This species of saturniid moth has enchanted amateur entomologists and nature enthusiasts for centuries. This enthralling moth species, characterized by its intriguing life cycle, silk production ability, distinct sexual dimorphism and ethereal beauty that thrives in the tranquil ecosystems of the Himalayan states. In this article, we embark on a journey to explore the world of the Indian Moon Moth within the Himalayan states, shedding light on its ecology, habitat and the significance of its presence in mountainous region along with this exploring taxonomy, behaviour and ecological significance. Furthermore, we discuss efforts to rear and conserve this magnificent insect and highlight the critical role of its diverse host plants in its survival.
Downloads
not found
Reference
Chutia, B.C., Kakati, L.N., Hirowatari, T., 2010. Biology and rearing performance of Actias selene Hubner (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae), a wild silk moth in Nagaland, India. Lepidoptera Science 61(3), 228-239. DOI: https://doi.org/10.18984/lepid.61.3_228.
Chutia, B.C., Nath, C., Kakati, L.N., 2016. Conservation strategies of Actias selene Hubner: A wild silk moth in Nagaland, India. Environment Conservation Journal 17(1&2), 41-45. DOI: https://doi.org/10.36953/ECJ.2016.171206.
Kavane, R.P., 2015. Occurrence of natural food plants of Indian moon moth Actias selene (Hubner) silkworm from India. Biolife 3(2), 496-498. DOI: https://doi.org/10.17812/blj2015.32.20.
Rajadurai, S., Thangavelu, K., 2000. Biology of moon moth Actias selene Hubner (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae) prevalent in Bhandara forest, Maharashtra. International Journal of Wild Silkmoth and Silk 5, 362-366.
Ramesh, K.R., Thakur, M., Mahajan, S., Sankyan, H.P., 2004. Actias selene-new pest of Populus alba Linn. in Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir States. Indian Forester 130(12), 1472-1474. DOI: https://doi.org/10.36808/if/2004/v130i12/2173.