Question:

The most preferred host species for tasar cultivation is ______.

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Remember the genus Termilia is the cornerstone of tropical tasar sericulture in India.
Both Termilia arju (Arjun) and Termilia alata (Asan) are extensively raised in systematic plantations for silkworm rearing.
  • Termilia alata
  • Acacia catechu
  • Ficus religiosa
  • Butea monosperma
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Tasar sericulture involves rearing the wild silkworm Antheraea mylitta on specific forest host trees to produce tasar silk.
Identifying and maging these host species is an important aspect of forest-based livelihoods and agroforestry.

Step 2: Detailed Explation:

The tropical tasar silkworm is a polyphagous insect that feeds on several tree species, which are categorized into primary and secondary hosts.
The primary and most preferred host plant species for tasar silkworms are:
Termilia alata (Asan/Saj): This is highly preferred due to its leaf nutritive quality, which supports optimal silkworm growth and high cocoon yields.

Termilia arju (Arjun): Another primary host plant widely cultivated in tasar sericulture plots.

Shorea robusta (Sal): Also serves as a primary host in tural forest stands.
While Butea monosperma (Palas) serves as a host for lac cultivation and occasiolly as a secondary host for tasar, Termilia alata remains the most preferred and widely utilized host species for commercial tasar rearing.

Step 3: Fil Answer:

The correct option is (A).
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