Threats and challenges of climate change effects on muga silk worm Antheraea assama Ww. (Lepidoptera) and strategies to overcome in muga silk production

Muga silk worm: Antheraea assama.Ww.(Lep.) - a highly localised wild insect species in the Brahmaputra valley of North Eastern India- is facing severe threats due to climate change effects in recent times. Compounded natural and man made interventions are influencing this precious sericigenous insect life cycle and threatening the very existence of this wild insect in future. Present study critically analyses the various types of threats faced over two decades and their influence on crop cycle of muga silkworms- with special reference to the climate change effects. Analytical study of weather patterns over years collected from spatial and non-spatial sources reveal increased risks for crucial but very essential seed crops. Due to weather changes even the favorable seasons too  becoming increasingly risky over the years. The study of same source seed performing differently in various pockets also reveals interesting but alarming effects of climate changes. Armed with the latest analytical tools, weather models and spatial techniques, attempts have been made to find near comfort zones locating specific pockets for pre-seed and seed crops. Suggested approach based on above studies includes: networking of seed production & supply from new locations for commercial crops, identification of new habitats for primary food plants of muga silkworms and change in rearing techniques under semi-protected and hitherto not tried novel conservation methods. Study further suggests a shift in the commercial rearing seasons for better yield performance based on observations based on advancements made in the last four years and expanding  commercial production base to scientifically identified new locations for future development. Suggestions are also put forth to take up studies on understanding the facultative diapause mechanism in these insects for conservation.